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Animal
Keepers'
Forum

SttfHft&xtt&fi tooUtut&n Lforories

Dedicated to Professional Animal Care

ANIMAL KEEPERS' FORUM. 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606

Executive Editor: Alice Miser July 1987

Managing Editor: Susan Chan Volume Fourteen
Associate Editor: Ron Ringer Number Seven

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

■Confercnce_P_QQj<_ C ,Q imnit tce

Phil Pennock, Woodland Park
Awards Committee
Rachel Rogers, Miami Metrozoo
RoQ.k-Rcyicw Coordinator

Kathy Sucharitakul, Akron Zoo

Legislative, Action Committee

Becky Rogers, Topeka Zoo

International Affairs Cflordiaatora - Melba Shields,
Calgary Zoo (west)

Staff Exchange

Elandra Aum, Woodland Park Zoo

Program Library

Debbie Jackson, Little Rock Zoo

Exhibit Design Form

Diane Forsyth, Akron Zoo

Keep e r-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
R ese arch/G r a n t s Committ ee

Kaci Thompson, NZP

P ublic Ed ucation Committ ee

Jay Jasan, Staten Island Zoo
AAZK Hi stor y Committ ee

Art Goodrich, San Diego Zoo
National Zoo (east) and Pam McDougall,

Animal Data Transfer Form

Bemie Feldman, Burnet Park Zoo

Member ship—

Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo
Piet Notebook
Susan Bunn, Minnesota Zoo
Biological Values/Gestation

Greater S. F. Bay Area Chapter
Libra ry Res o urc es

Kaci Thompson, NZP
In.fa.nl-- D .e.Y.e.!,opm ent No tebook

Steven Wing, Milwaukee Zoo
N om i natio ns & Ele c tio ns

Janet McCoy, Washington Park
Zoological Gardens

CO-DIRECTORS REGIONAL COORDINATORS

States East of the Mississipp i - Diane Krug, White Oak Plantation, Yulee, FL
States West of Mississipp i - 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 features the Cotton-topped. Tamarin ( Saguinus oedipus) drawn by
Susan Margulis, small mammal keeper at the Burnet Park Zoo in Syracuse, NY. An extremely
agile primate, the tamarin is arboreal and is native to the rainforests of South America. The
species lives in extended, monogomous family groups in which both the male and female assist
in infant rearing. Many tamarin species are endangered due to habitat destruction in their
native rainforests. Thanks, Susan!

SCOOPS

SCUTTLEBUTT

Papers Sought for 8th Annual Elephant Confereence

The North Carolina Zoological Park is soliciting papers for presentation at the Eighth
Annual Elephant Workshop to be held 11-14 November in Greensboro, NC. Papers covering
all aspects of elephant care and management are invited. Please submit an outline or abstract,
or contact Jim Small, North Carolina Zoological Park, Route 4, Box 83, Asheboro, NC 27203 as
soon as possible.

Cherry Brook Zoo Seeks Materials for Atlantic National Exhibition

Once again the Cherry Brook Zoo is beginning preparations for the Atlantic National
Exhibition. As in the past we invite any interested parties to send their contributions of
posters, flyers, educational materials, handouts, etc. for display at our building. We will be
happy to pay any postage and handling. The exhibition runs from 30 August to 5 September.
We feel this is a unique opportunity to become involved in the community. We try to cover
various aspects from pet care to endangered species, exotic pet trade, the aims of zoos in
modern day society, etc. We had over 30,000 people visit our building last year and
approximately 2,000 certificates were given to children for taking part in our Endangered
Species Awareness Program.

We have received materials from across Canada, the United States, Japan and Europe and
appreciate any and all items sent. Be represented at the Atlantic National Exhibition.
Please send all contributions to: Cherry Brook Zoo, RR#1, Sandy Point Road, Saint John, New
Brunswick, Canada E2L 3W2, Attn: Lynn Collrin.

Diet Notebook News

Susan Kenny, Senior Aquarist/Diver at the John G. Shedd Aquarium and Invertebrate Diet
Notebook Coordinator, presented a paper at the Central AAZPA Regional in April. The
paper "A Diet Notebook for Invertebrates and Fish" concentrated on the invertebrates and
fish sections, but gave an overview of the entire notebook project. Susan felt the paper and
project were well received, and she was given many compliments from keepers and
management staff in attendance. Our thanks to Susan for her time, energy, and hard work on
behalf of the AAZK Diet Notebook Project.

If you have not yet submitted your diets for the Project, DO SO NOW. A list of the
Coordinators for the various Diet Notebook sections may be found on page 162 of the June issue
of AKF.

193

Scoops and Scuttlebutt. Continued

Regional Coordinator System Update

Diane Krug, Co-Director of the RC System, has announced that the RC position for the states
of NC, SC, TN, and W. VA has been filled by Chris Garland of the North Carolina Zoological
Park, Asheboro, NC. Members in those states who want more information about AAZK should
contact Chris.

Please also note that the home telephone number for RC Tim Kurkowski, Zoo Atlanta, has
been changed. The new number is (404) 292-6314. Tim is RC for the states of GA, AR and AL.

Animal Data Transfer Forms Available

Animal Data Transfer Forms used for shipping animals are available free of charge to all zoos
and aquariums. Contact Bernie Feldman, Burnet Park Zoo, 500 Burnet Park Drive, Syracuse,
NY 13204 to request your supply of ADT Forms.

"The Far Side" Comes to Our Side

During an April visit to the Washington Park Zoo, Portland, OR , well-known cartoonist Gary
Larson of "The Far Side" fame, was presented with a certificate proclaiming him Cartoonist
Laureate of the American Association of Zoo Keepers. Presented to Larson by Phil Prewett
(A.K.A. - AAZK Undersecretary of Morale), the certificate cited the cartoonist for his
"inspirational works, especially those works depicting keepers and the kept, due to the fact it
is not always clear which is which." We welcome "The Far Side" to our side!

From the President...

On behalf of the AAZK National Board of Directors and the entire membership, I
would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the Assiniboine Park Zoo Keepers
Association for the excellent way in which they conducted the 1986 National AAZK
Conference held in Winnipeg. Recently, the Association received a check for $4,092.01
(U.S.) representing the profit split made from this event. This money will help pay for
our newly installed computer system as well as other AAZK projects which allow the
Association to continue to strive for excellence as it grows in both size and strength.
Without the support of its members, AAZK would not have been able to survive to see
its 20th Anniversary. Active participation and deep commitment from each AAZK
member enables the Association to achieve many of its projected goals.

Unfortunately, only those enthusiastic members who unselfishly support AAZK
quickly discover that the more you put into the Association, the more you get back in
return. The rewards are endless. In more ways than one the Winnipeg keepers have
always known this because of their positive attitude and loyalty towards AAZK which
has enabled them to prosper not only with an AAZK project, but individually as
people or more importantly, as professional zoo keepers. All of your Chapter's efforts
are greatly appreciated and admired.

Jean Hromadka, AAZK President

194

Coming Events

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 Qf the Association pf 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.

Third Annual Gr eat Lake s Regional Confe r en ce

August 28-30, 1987 Toledo, OH

Hosted by the Toledo AAZK Chapter. Topic: The Zoological Institution's Role in the
Preservation and Conservation of African Species -- A Keeper's Perspective. Call for papers -
deadline is 15 June. Registration deadline is 1 August. For further information, contact Bill
Whittaker, Toledo Zoo, 2700 Broadway, Toledo, OH 43609 (419) 385-5721.

ISSZAAZEAAiQPHiaLCp jtfe x e hce

September 20-24,1987 Portland, OR

For more information contact: Jane Hartline , Director of Public Relations, Washington Park
Zoo, 4001 S.W. Canyon Rd., Portland, OR 97221 (503) 226-1561.

■T.h.e..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.

195

Coming Events. Continued

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.

"Tropical Rainforests: Interdependence & Responsibility"

October 16-18, 1987

New York, NY

Sponsored by the New York Rainforest Alliance, the conference will be held at Hunter
College, Lexington Ave. at 68th St. Noted economists, scientists, conservationists, and
corporate representatives will gather to discuss the ways we in the developed world are
connected to and dependent on the tropical rainforest environment, and actions that can be
taken to preserve this environment for future generations. Registration fee is $60.00. To
register or obtain further information contact: New York Rainforest Alliance, 320 Park Ave,
30th Floor, New York, NY 10022 (212) 906-1694.

The Bight 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.

1988 AAZPA Regional Conferences

AAZPA Western Regional - 6-8 March, 1988 - for more information contact: Charles Farwell,
Aquarist/ Curator, Monterey Bay Aquarium, 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940 (408) 649-
6466.

AAZPA Southern Regional -20-22 March, 1988 - for more information contact: Al Fontana,
Assistant Director, or Gordon Hubbell, DVM, Miami Metrozoo, 12400 S. W. 152 St., Miami, FL
33177 (305) 251-0401.

AAZPA Central Regional - 10-12 April, 1988 - For more information contact: Michael LaRue,
Assistant Director, Topeka Zoological Park, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, Ks 66606 (913) 272-5821.
(This is a great opportunity to visit AAZK National Headquarters!)

AAZPA Great Lakes Regional - 24-27 April, 1988 - for more information contact: David
Lonsdale, Assistant Director, John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 South Lake Shore Drive,
Chicago, IL 60605 (312) 939-2426.

AAZPA Northeastern Regional - 1-3 May, 1988 - for more information contact: Peter
Crowcroft, Director, Salisbury Zoological Park, Box 3163, Salisbury, MD 21801 (301) 548-3188.

196

Births & Hatchings

The Bronx Zoo Chapter reports the following notable B&H for April and May. Those included
are endangered or threatened in nature or are considered notable because ours is one of the
few major breeding programs for the species in the country.

1.0 Silver leaf langur (Presbvtis cristalus) was born on 15 May. This male was the second
offspring from his mother and the ninth born to his troop which inhabit the Lowland Evergreen
Rain Forest exhibit in Jungle World. On 17 May, an as yet unsexed Pen-tailed bettong ( Bettona
pencillata) made its first journey out of the pouch. As of this writing it is doing well and growing in
size and activity dJIy. Small clawed otter ( Aonvx cinerea ) breeding is continuing with the birth of
a single pup on 1 April. This pup is the first second-generation Small clawed otter born at the
Bronx Zoo. Other endangered mammal species bred at the Bronx Zoo during April and May
include: 1.0 Pudu ( Pudu pudu ): 0.1.1 Slender-horn gazelle ( Gazella leptocems) : 1.2 Gaur
l Bos oaurus) : 1 .4 Barasingha ( Cervus duvauceli ) : 1.3.1 Pere David deer ( Elaohus davidianus) :
and 0.0.2 Mouflon ( Ovis mu simons) .

Significant bird hatchings during May/June include: 0.0.3 Waldrapp Ibis ( Geronticus eremita) .
Though Waldrapp's have been bred successfully in Europe, this is one of the first in the United
States. The chicks are being parent-reared and growing at an incredible rate. 0.0.1 Guam
Kingfisher (Halvcon cinnamomina) was hatched on 10 May. The chick is being hand-reared and
is the thirteenth Guam kingfisher raised thus far at the Bronx Zoo. Also of note are 0.0.3 Malay
peacock pheasant ( Psittrichas fulaidas) and 0.0.1 Helmeted curassow ( Crax oauxi) .

Two species of Chelonias highlight the Herpetology department's hatchings - 0.0.3 Bog turtles
(Clemmvs muhlenbergi) . CITES II; and 0.0.2 Radiated tortoise ( Geochelone radiata ). CITES I.
Submitted by Mark L. Hof ling, Corresponding Secretary, Bronx Zoo AAZK Chapter.

On 9 May, 1987 a female pygmy hippo was born at the Greater Baton Rouge Zoo. "Nessie" was
briefly separated from her mother after twenty-four hours and her weight at that time was
recorded as 5.93 kilograms. She is the sixth pygmy hippo born at the Greater Baton Rouge Zoo.

"Toy", a ten-year-old Canada lynx, gave birth to one kitten on 3 May. Toy previously had given
birth on several occasions, but had never raised the kittens herself. Her last known litter was in
1984. Now with a new mate, a den box and plenty of privacy, she appears to be doing a good
job of rearing this kitten herself. The kitten remains unsexed at this time.

The month of May also brought many more interesting B&H to the Greater Baton Rouge Zoo.
Notable births included 1.1 Besia oryx, 0.1 Gemsbok, 0.1 Red lechwe, 0.1 Impala and 0.0.3
Snow leopards. Hatchings include 0.0.3 Red-sided eclectus parrots, 0.0.1 Crested guan and
0.0.4 Whooper swans. Submitted by Linda Sanders, Head Keeper, Greater Baton Rouge Zoo.

The Silver Springs Attraction in Silver Springs, FL is pleased to announce the birth of ten
blackbuck antelope, bringing our herd up to 43. It was a busy March for us with the births of 0.2
llama, 10 Mouflon, 0.1 Grants zebra, 3 Aoudad and our first Scimitar-horned oryx which was a
male. All can be seen along our Junglecruise Waterway. Submitted by Joann Zeliff.

B&H for March-May 1987 at Zoo Atlanta include 0.0.1 Reeves muntjac, 0.0.12 Wood duck, 0.0.7
Mandarin, 0.0.5 Silver teal, 0.0.8 Marganser, 0.0.5 Chiloe wigeons and 0.1.1 California sealion.
Acquisitions included 0.1 llama, 0.0.10 Sun conure, 0.1 Kinkijou, 1.1 Suffolk sheep, 1.1
European white stork and 1.1 Vietnamanese pot-bellied pig and 1.0 Mandrill baboon.
Submitted by Tim Kurkowski, Chapter Liaison, Zoo Atlanta AAZK Chapter.

197

Births & Hatchings . Continued

On 31 March, 1 .1 Bat-eared Foxes ( Otoe von meaalotis) were born by caesarean section to our
captive-born female in the Children's Zoo at the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans, LA. This was her
first litter. The kits are being hand-reared in the zoo nursery and are growing rapidly.

The Primate Dept, announces the birth of two Black howler monkeys ( Alouatta carava ) . The first,
born in January, has begun exploring his surroundings and joins his family in threatening the
keepers. The other newborn howler is the fourth offspring for this female. Born in April, this last
delivery was normal although the two before had to be done by c-section. We were pleased that
this birth was without complications. On 25 April 1 .1 ruffed lemur ( Lemur varieqatus) were born.
They are being mother-reared and gaining about lOOg/week.

The Bird Dept, is excited about the hatching of 0.0.1 Rhinoceros Hornbill ( Buceros rhinoceros ) .
The bird hatched on 18 March and fledged on 4 June. The Rhino hornbills born last year are
being housed in an adjoining enclosure. Submitted by Carolyn Kennedy, Audubon Zoo.

On Saturday, 28 February 1987, a Ruppell's griffon vulture hatched at the Milwaukee County
Zoo. To our knowledge, this is the first time this species has been bred successfully in captivity
in North America.

Shortly after laying, the egg was removed from the nest and incubated while the parents
incubated a dummy egg. Zoo Pride, the volunteer organization at the Zoo, provided valuable
assistance spending many man-hours observing the parent vultures and obtaining records on
the nesting behavior and incubation data. Just prior to hatching, the dummy egg was replaced
with the fertile egg and Zoo Pride continued to monitor the nest. After hatching, additional data
was collected on the parent raising of the chick.

The chick weighed 3.7 ounces (144 grams) at hatching. As of this writing, it weighs 6.2
kilograms (6,200 grams). The bird has been off-exhibit with its parents and will remain off-exhibit
until it is old enough to join the rest of the flock. Submitted by Carol J. Boyd, Corresponding
Secretary, Milwaukee AAZK Chapter.

"Nessie", the sixth pygmy hippo born at the Greater Baton Rouge Zoo, arrived
on 9 May 1987 weighing 5.93 kilograms. (Photo by Linda Sanders)

198

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&HIMA

Coming in Touch with a New Wave of Chinese Zoo's World

By

Yoshl Yonetani

ZooDEL/Zoo Design & Education Lab
Kobe, Japan

On the chain of the external cultural exchange's activities, I went abroad to China in April
1987 and I had the opportunity to visit several animal facilities and museums (including
those with natural history themes) within a given time period. I would like to introduce the
Beijin and Shanghai Zoos among others with a brief description. Both zoos are the typical
facilities in China.

At the present time there are about 170 Chinese Zoos and most of these institutions are
integrated into a section of an existing park. We were sorry not to see a full-scaled aquarium
in this country as yet. The Chinese Zoo Association has just organized in 1985. Their
president is a sub-head of the environmental protection department for urban and rural
construction in the government and the positions of vice president and secretary are currently
being managed by the Director of the Beijin Zoo.

Located in the capital city, the Beijin Zoo is the zoological garden with the longest history
and most species of animals in China. It occupies an area of 90 ha. Originally a royal estate
in the Ming Dynasty, it became a private garden of the royal family in the Ching Dynasty
and was popularly known as the San Bei Zi Garden. Reconstruction for a Central Agricultural
Experimental Station began in 1906 (the 32nd year of Emperor Guangxu) and it was opened to
the public in 1908. The greater part of the garden was then farmland, sapling nursery and
orchard. The Empress Dowager, for her own amusement, established a small zoo on 1.5 ha in
an area known as Wan Sheng Yuan, or the Garden of Ten Thousand Beasts. The total number
of visitors were no more than 50-60,000 annually then. This garden suffered heavy damage
before the national liberation in 1949.

After the founding of the New China, the garden re-opened in 1950 with many old houses
repaired and new animal collections obtained. It was formally named the Beijin Zoological
Garden in 1955. New installations with a total floor space of more than 20,000 sq. meters
were added over the years with the exception of the original monkey hill. The variety of
animals has been increased from the dozen species at the time of liberation to over 600 species
at the present time. The annual attendance is more than 10 million. Through the exhibition
of animals, zoological knowledge is spread effectively to the public and their cultural life
enriched. The Zoo is certainly one of the most beloved excursion centers for the broad masses.

This principal zoo's important records show the following (i.e. either first case in China or in
the world) breeding success for polar bear, 1962; giant pandas, 1963; black rhino, 1965;
Chinese crocodile lizard ( Shinisaurus crocodilurus ) . 1979; orangutan (*by hand-rearing), 1980;
gorilla, 1982; American manatee, 1982 by the Beijin Zoo, and Asian elephant, 1978; and
chimpanzee in 1980 by the Shanghai Zoo. By the way, a pair of manatee were presented to
the Beijin Zoo as a gift by the Mexican government and are the only members of this species on
exhibit in China. Two African elephants are also kept only at the Beijin Zoo. The second
arrival of this species was expected quite recently, but the plan to send the elephant from
Japan to the Tianjin Zoo was not realized due to an unfortunate accident on a transport ship. A
pair of Japanese serows who were presented by our government in rememberance of mutual
diplomatic relations have had good reproductive success and their calves have been
distributed among other Chinese zoos.

200

Zoo News From China, Continued

The elephant show at the Beijin Zoo is open to visitors by admission fee every day. It is
worthy of special mention. A young elephant came from Sri Lanka five years ago and another
was born here as the remainder of three calves (the first baby in 1978, second in 1981, third in
1984). They were broken in by full-time trainers. Curiously, there are no elephant shows in
the Chinese Circus world as matters now stand. Instead of it, two tamed giant pandas (male
'Wei-wei", 14 years old; and female "Chou-chou', 3 years old) whom I met backstage, belong
to the biggest Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe, and the circus-panda must make a premiere in
America in the near future. In connection with the animal's performance. I'll make it clear
that four lesser pandas are being trained for future staging. It 's an incredible and so unique
Chinese accomplishment. You may be sure that their circus act shall be a first anywhere.

The most highlighted thing in Beijin was an earnest project for the propagation of crested ibis
( Nipponia nippon ). Though our last pair in Japan (advanced ages) is kept warmly at the
Sado breeding center, one male crested ibis who has been at the Beijin Zoo since June of 1981
after taking artificial care of chick in breeding season, came to the center from China on a
three-year breeding loan at the end of October 1985. On the other side, twenty wild ibises
are certified in China at the beginning of 1986. However, their future prospects will not
warrant optimism yet.

The Beijin Zoo has its national animal center about 50km north of the main zoo and it is
generally used as an isolation and/or breeding center. When I visited the center, the male
golden langur (also called Chinese golden monkey, Rhinopithecus r. roxellanae . ) who was
exhibited at the Los Angeles Zoo was rehabilitating there ; an Asian moose ( Alces alces
cameloides ) was under quarantine there; and a pair of giant pandas were in residence just
prior to their shipment to the Bronx Zoo for their long-awaited exhibition. I'm looking
forward to getting any informative materials about the panda's sensation from well-meaning
staff at that facility. For the third time, golden langurs will be sent on loan from China to
zoos in Japan. The first couple, from the Wuhan Zoo, was exhibited at the Japan Monkey
Center in March '85. The second loan was from the Tianjin Zoo to the exposition in Kobe in
July '85. This third loan will send golden langurs from the national animal center to Zoo
Hiroshima.

The Shanghai Zoo is a zoological park in the western surburb of downtown (near the
international airport), formerly known as Western Suburb Park. Construction on the park was
begun at the end of 1953 and the park was opened to the public on 25 May, 1954, in celebration
of the 5th anniversary of the liberation of the city. In 1980 the park was renamed the
Shanghai Zoological Park. It covers an area of 70 ha (175 acres) with an annual attendance
of four million.

When the Zoo was first established there were only a little over 30 kinds of animals. Now
the number of species has grown to more than 350, with a specimen count of over 3,000
individuals. There are over 70 rare species (comprising 600 individual specimens) which
include: giant panda, golden langur, white-lipped deer ( Cervus albirostris) . Szechwan takin
( Budorcas taxicolor tibetana ), golden takin (B. t. bedfordi ), Yangzi alligator ( Alligator
sinensis ), black-necked crane ( Grus nigricollis ) to name only a few. Representative world
species number over 40 and a specimen count of more than 200 individuals. It is so hard to
believe that the Zoo was originally an English-made golf course.

Scientific research activities have been routine in this Zoo which has breeding records for
such species as giant panda, golden langur, Asian elephant, mandrill, chimpanzee, Yangzi
alligator, cassowary, etc. According to the master plan, several new halls are to be added to
the main complex, the aquarium, the amphibian and reptile hall. Also in the works are the
Educational Hall and a research center. In order to make the zoo more attractive, new species
are certain to join the exhibition ranks from time to time.

The Shanghai Zoo has their own attached farm formed of 4 ha about 2km apart. Here is a
famous breeding station for golden langur, Yangzi alligator and takin especially. Also they
have recorded a hatching of Asian white stork ( Ciconia c. bovciana ) at the farm. The

201

Zoo News From China. Continued

breeding project for red goral ( Naemorhedus cranbrooki ) gains good results as does the Taipei
Zoo, Taiwan. During my stay in Shanghai, four pairs of tufted deer ( Elaphodus
cephalophus ) and takins were in quarantine for export outside of China (including to Japan)
this autumn. Asian golden cats and the third pair of white storks are destined to go to the
Osaka municipal Tennoji Zoo in Japan on a program of long-term animal exchanges with sister
cities this summer. At the same time they are exchanging technical know-how through
mutual visits by specialists. Shanghai has such a relationship with San Francisco.

The newest facility at the Shanghai Zoo is the small mammal complex which opened in
early May and includes open enclosures and an animal nursery. I believe this new facility is a
big topic among Chinese zoos.

Lastly, I’ll announce this matter about the international conference on cranes and storks to be
held in China this past May. One researcher from the International Crane Foundation in
Baraboo, WI was scheduled to participate. Various kinds of problems for these species
propagation, conservation and husbandry (especially for rare cranes and white storks of Asia
mainly) were included in the program topics.

In the Chinese Zoo world, their modernized renovation moves at a slow pace to tell the
truth, but their technology and knowledge are progressing gradually day by day.
Educational activities have started at the halls or galleries of zoos where general visitors
and students can learn more about animals around the world. I'll have to turn my eyes on the
trends of the panda's home country from now on.

An Open Letter to the AAZK Membership

To the Membership of AAZK:

It is with mixed emotions that I report to you my recent resignation from the Board of
Directors of the American Association of Zoo Keepers. I have just accepted the position of
Curator of Education at Reid Park Zoo here in Tucson and must drop from the status of
Professional Member to Affiliate Member. AAZK is an organization of zoo keepers which
operates for zoo keepers and must be managed by zoo keepers.

On the one hand I am delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to conservation through
the role of zoo educator. Reid Park Zoo has just entered a phase of progressive improvement
and I intend to do my best to help make Reid Park one of the finest small zoos in the United
States.

On the other hand, I leave the zoo keeping profession with feelings of deep regret. I have
worked hard over my career to promote professionalism among zoo keepers and to support
AAZK's goals and principles. I believe in AAZK; I am proud of the organization’s progress
over the last decade, I am pleased with its present status and I am hopeful of AAZK's future
role in determining the State of the Ark. But in order to ensure that bright future, each
member of AAZK must become more deeply involved in the national organization.

The local chapter is the backbone of AAZK, but the local chapter is just an extension of the
larger brotherhood /sisterhood of professional zoo keepers throughout the United States,
Canada and the world. Each chapter's actions, indeed each member's actions, are a reflection
on every other AAZK Chapter and individual member. Therefore we each have a
professional responsibility to represent each other in positive and constructive ways.

Despite my resignation, I promise to continue working for AAZK as appropriate and I urge
each of you to take a similar vow.

Sincerely,

Kerry Hoffman
Curator of Education
Reid Park Zoo, Tucson, A Z

202

DOWN

UNDER

By

Judie Steenberg, Keeper
Woodland Park Zoo
Seattle, WA

DOWN UNDER is an information

column about Australasian ani-
mals. While there are a number
of Keepers who work in Austral-
asian Units, or routines, oft times
a Keeper will have a few species
of animals from the Australasian zoogeographical region on their string or routine. It is
hoped this section will contain information on birds, mammals and reptiles.

This column is intended to:

-share experiences and information to improve the care and management of
Australasian animals.

-seek information and advice on problems that occur.

-serve as a forum through which to make comment, to ask questions, to
critique, or to verify information.

Please send your materials (a question, a paragraph or an article) directly to Animal
Keeners' Forum , Topeka Zoological Park, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606, Attn:
Susan Chan.

Ear Biting in Macropods

This behavior has been observed and reported in eastern grey kangaroos, potoroos,
scrub wallabies and wallaroos. If you're having this problem with your macropods,
consider what "worked" at the Woodland Park Zoological Gardens with a mob of
wallaroos.

About five years ago, we kept 15 adult walaroo in the current exhibit:

Indoor stall 18' x 20' with a 6' x 10' ante room

Outdoor yard 70' x 300' on the outer curve (see diagram)

At that time the feeding method for grain and produce was to spread a 18-foot strip
along the front wall, below the visitor viewing windows. Hay was fed in two 3-4 foot wide
hay racks. It was not unusual to come in in the morning and find blood spattered on the
walls in the feeding area from ears being bitten.

Usually the bites were minor and just resulted in a small tear. On occasion, "hunks"
were bitten out; this seemed to occur most often on at-foot joeys. Biting behavior was
most common in non-related wallaroos.

To remedy this situation we first went to feeding out of food trays and pans, and
spaced them several feet apart along three walls instead of one. Immediate change

203

DOWN UNDER: Ear-Biting in Macropods Continued

was noted in the wallaroos' behavior and ear-biting stopped during feeding, which is
when the majority of it occurred. (Following are diagrams of the two methods of
feeding.)

o oO o = grain/
produce

= hay rack

public viewing windows

C>«5 o o o a a & o o c> o «"> o

Old feeding method

□

hay storage
room

J

public viewing windows

204

DOWN UNDER: Ear-Biting in Macropods . Continued

Another adjustment to the feeding regime was made with the forage. When eating
hay out of racks, the wallaroo would bore holes into the hay as deep as their muzzles
would go. Usually only one adult wallaroo, and at-foot joey would eat at a rack at one
time. The mob wasn't eating a lot of hay and over-grazed the yard instead.
Interestingly, some of the roos preferred hay to the fresh, green grass they had
available at all times.

By feeding smaller amounts of hay, loosened and spread between the grain/produce
food pans the following changes occurred:

1) Several wallaroos eat hay at one time, undisturbed by the others.

2) Hay consumption increased and the yard holds up year-round, even during
the winter rain, when heavy trampling occurs.

At this point you might be asking the question "What about feeding hay and lumpy
jaw?" We feed 50/50 alfalfa/grass hay (mixed at the Unit) and have not had a
problem with lumpy jaw. We have had two wallaroo (1.1 adults) that had badly
decayed teeth with attendant abcesses that responded 100% to the removal of the
teeth and a subsequent series of antibiotic injections. Woodland Park has kept
wallaroo since the 1930's. Records have been kept on the mob since 1970 with 50 births
recorded since 1974; all but six of the joeys survived beyond the at-foot stage.

Back to the main point, in addition to changing our method of feeding, we also keep
the mob at a maximum number of twelve wallaroo (adults and at-foot joeys). This has
resulted in fewer stress-related management problems. Every once in awhile a joey
will end up with an ear bite, which is usually only a nick; male joeys seem to experience
this more often than the females.

In conclusion, if you are having ear-biting problems, first try increasing the number of
feeding stations. We go with a general rule of two wallaroos to one feed pan or tray. It
might also be good to look at the number of animals versus available space;
crowding must be seriously considered. While our yard is more than adequate... the
indoor stall, is out determining factor. The wallaroos have 24-hour access to the stall
and during inclement weather choose to spend the majority of their time inside. We
seldom see disruptive behavioral interactions in the outside yard.

Finally, in mixed-species exhibits, watch carefully for interactions that could be
causing stress.

205

Information Please

The Greater Baton Rouge Zoo opened Easter Sunday in 1970 with primarily a young collection
of primates. Some of the primates, particularly guenons, which were received in the first few
years of operation, are approaching twenty years of age. I am interested in knowing to what
age a female guenon can continue to become pregnant and produce healthy offspring. I would
like to hear from keepers about the oldest age their guenons have attained (both male and
female) and the oldest age at which they fathered or gave birth to babies. What is
considered "old” for a guenon? What changes in behavior or condition can be expected? I
would like to hear about any guenon species, especially the DeBrazza, Greater Spot-nosed,
Diana, Sykes and Blue monkeys. Please send any pertinent information to: Linda Sanders,
Greater Baton Rouge Zoo, Baker, LA 70704.

The Great Plains Zoo would like to have input from other zoos in regard to accepting donated
animals, both domestic and exotic, from the general public. Please send response and/or
policies to: Mel Elsing, Head Keeper, The Great Plains Zoo, 805 S. Kiwanis Ave., Sioux Falls,
SD 57104.

I would like to request information regarding the management of Fishers ( Maries pennanti ) in
captivity. Information on reproductive success, diet, management practices and exhibition
history would be very useful in my work with this species at the Burnet Park Zoo. Any little
scrap of info would be most appreciated and may be sent to: Tom LaBarge, 312 Hamilton St.,
#7, Syracuse, NY 13204.

I am in need of any information pertaining to the general husbandry, propagation and rearing
techniques, and any reference articles on Ocellated Turkeys ( Agriochavis ocellata) . Any
information would be greatly appreciated. Please send to: Mike Demlong, Exhibit/Design,
Wildlife World Zoo, Rt. 1, Box 348- A, Litchfield Park, AZ 85340.

Information is being sought on possible sources for obtaining a family of marmosets and a
family of meerkats for use in educational exhibits at the Newark Museum's Mini-Zoo.
Information is also requested on the care, handling, husbandry, exhibit requirements, dietary
needs, etc. for these species. If you know of sources for obtaining these species or can provide
information on their husbandry, please contact: Maria E. Ramirez, Assistant to the Director,
Science Dept., Newark Museum, 49 Washington St., P.O. Box 540, Newark, NJ ,07101 (201) 596-
6550.

206

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program, call Animal Spectrum.

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h 1

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Banana flavored primate, 15% protein
Banana flavored primate, Pro-Plus 25% protein
Omnivore dry
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In Nebraska, call collect 402/488-6492

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Lincoln, NE 68506-0307

Watch this space for what's new for zoos!

Book Review

Of Their Own Free Will: The Amazing Story
of the Volunteers for Morris Animal Foundation
By Willard C. Haselbush
Morris Animal Foundation, Englewood, CO, 1986
137 pp. text, ll pp. notes & B&W photos, $2.95 pbk,

Review by Phyllis J. Johnson
Volunteer, Akron Zoological Park
Akron, OH

This book is not just the story of the volunteers for the Morris Animal Foundation, as its
subtitle indicates, but is a history of the Foundation itself.

Founded in 1948, its original aim was to underwrite scientific studies into the causes and cures
of diseases and health problems in what the founder terms "Companion Animals"; it continues
today to be the only organization to do so. A modest-sized group in 1948, the MAF has grown to
a paid staff of four or five persons (executive director plus office staff), at least 800 volunteers,
and more than 80,000 supporters, with a grants budget of over $1,000,000 per year.

Each of the 200-odd proposed projects yearly are subjected to a rigorous process, and those
accepted for funding follow the firm policy that none involve cruelty to animals. As Executive
Director Claude Ramsey stresses, "...what is desperately needed is the coordination of
efforts... [the MAF's] obligation is to see that research is done, the veterinarians are trained,
the owners informed." The three original divisions - canine, feline, and equine - were
expanded in 1964 to include zoo/wildlife, and in 1975, the veterinary division.

Most of the studies funded have been in the area of canine health, but others include feline
leukemia, equine colic, and the first English-language medical text on zoo medicine. Plans for
the future include simple and safe animal bith control, and a computerized zoo medicine data
bank which will contain all known data on zoo animal diseases, treatments and research.

This is not a book to read for pleasure; the first ten chapters deal with the founding, increasing
funding needs, do we-don't we add the public to positions originally held by family/friends,
paragraphs of names of civic, business and entertainment figures, and always the question and
problem of funding (which, admittedly, is something every non-profit organization faces).
Finally, chapters eleven and twelve tell about some of the projects themselves, as well as
communication efforts and public relations concepts.

I would recommend this book for a general public/academic library, since it is a thorough
history of a unique animal health organization, peopled by many individuals working
toward a common goal.

®

208

®©&®!b©n’ 4HeB 0 Ei)©7
3MISHw^ialk©© 0 WH

Final Call For Papers

AAZK MILWAUKEE

19 8 7

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 may 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 may be found in
the April 1987 issue of AKF .

Papers will be limited to 20 minutes followed by a five-minute discussion
period. An outline or abstract must be submitted by 15 July, 1987 along with
the following information.

Name of Presenter

Zoo Affiliation

Position/Title

Title of Paper

Equipment Needed _______________________________ ____

Send to: Papers Committee, AAZK Conference ' 87 , Milwaukee County Zoo,
10001 W. Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53226.

Erratum: The April 1987 issue of the Forum mistakenly listed clue #3 as
across when it should have been listed as down. Sorry for the
inconvenience.

\

Crossword Puzzle Clues

Across:

18. Fun game played with a large white ball and a net.

| 28. will feature tests of skill, Wednesday afternoon,

j with teams of zoo keepers.

Down:

24. At least five (5) . are provided with the conference j

registration (including the banquet).

26. The rhino is a part of the AAZK .

- J

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 State/Province.

Zip Code Telephone # i L

Date of Arrival

Date of Departure

Guaranteed by: Credit Card

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.

R eturn this for m.t P -1

Conference '87
Milwakuee County Zoo
10001 W. Bluemound Road
Milwaukee, WI 53226

Check

Tentative Program for Conference f 87

Saturday, 3 October
Sunday, 4 October

Monday, 5 October
Tuesday, 6 October

Board of Directors Meeting (Closed Session)

Board of Directors Meeting, Registration
Pre-conference Tour, Icebreaker

Paper Presentations, AAZK Birthday Party

Milwaukee County Zoo Tour, Workshop,
Zoolympics, Silent Auction

Wednesday, 7 October

Museum, Conservatory, Brewery Tours

Thursday, 8 October Paper Presentations, Keynote Speaker, AAZK

Awards, General Membership Meeting, Banquet/
Auction/Dancing

An expanded program will appear in a later issue of the Forum .

Conference Room Reservation

The Sheraton-Mayfair and the Conference Committee have set aside a small
conference room in the hotel to be used by committees, members or
informal discussion groups. There will be a sign-up sheet posted at all times
during the conference. If you wish to reserve the room ahead of time,
contact the Papers Committee with the following information:

Name of Committee/Group, Committee Head, Time and Date desired.
Please send a telephone number where you can be reached for confirmation.
All early-bird reservations will be published in the September issue of the
Forum for advance notice.

Keepers Alert

Three Keepers from Oxford, England will be attending the 1987 AAZK
National Conference in Milwaukee. They are avid collectors of zoo
guidebooks and have requested copies of your zoo’s guidebook or
information brochure. Please bring a copy with you when you visit
Milwaukee. If a representative of your institution is unable to attend, feel
free to mail your guidebook to us in Milwaukee. Thank you.

PostzConference 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 Samtnarco, 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?

209

CHAPTER

NEWS

North Carolina Chapter

On 6 April, 1987, the North Carolina
Chapter of the American Association of
Zoo Keepers was established with
keepers from the North Carolina
Zoological Park, Duke Primate Center
and the Natural Science Center of
Greensboro. Our Constitution and By-
Laws were ratified and the following
officers elected:

President..... Chris Garland

Vice Pres Lewis Greene

Secretary Lucy Segerson

Treasurer Laurie Thomas

Chapter Liaison Debbie Burke

Three committees formed were:
Programs, Fund-Raising, and Keeper
Slide Show. The Chapter plans to have a
program/ speaker at each bi-monthly
meeting. Two fund-raisers have been
planned including a bake sale and
participation in a local Fall Festival
where arts and crafts will be sold. The
Keeper Slide Show committee will
develop a visual educational program
describing the zoo keeper's role in exotic
animal care which can be presented to
school and community groups.

-—Lucy Segerson, Sec'y

San Antonio Zoo AAZK Chapter

The following officers were elected at the
June Meeting:

President Rick Oliver

Vice Pres Gilbert Perez

Treasurer Rob Brooker

Secretary Cherie Langlois

Some of the previous year's activities
and fund-raisers included a trip to see
the Whooping Crane at Aransas
National Wildlife Refuge, a visit to a
cave inhabited by Free-tailed bats, a
photo contest, and a merchant's
discount coupon book drive. In the
coming year we plan to establish a
Chapter logo and hold a "Pet Wash" for
fund-raising purposes. Current fund-
raisers include aluminum can recycling
and weekly coffee/donut sales. We
attempt to have a speaker at our
monthly meetings and, in addition.

conduct monthly business meetings in
which the officers identify projects and
set the agenda for the membership
meeting.

——Cherie Langlois, Sec'y

Zoo Atlanta AAZK Chapter

On 5 June, 1987, the Zoo Atlanta AAZK
hosted a party in honor of F.O.Z.A.
(Friends of Zoo Atlanta) in recognition
for their paying our membership dues
for National AAZK. We also honored the
Conservation & Research Committee of
F.O.Z.A. which allows each keeper
$750.00 per year for conference and
travel costs. Our Chapter feels this
generous support by F.O.Z.A. certainly
deserves recognition.

Our Chapter has been veiy active the last
couple of months. On the 'Willie B."
Birthday celebration day (Willie B. is
our resident lowland gorilla), sponsored
by the Zoo, we made $313.00 selling T-
shirts. On "Picture Yourself at the Zoo
Day", sponsored by Wolf Camera, we
made $210.00 selling T-shirts!

We are busy planning a rummage sale
for later this summer and are funding
the renovation of the lobby of the
elephant building. We also recently sent
a check to World Wildlife Fund for
$ 1000 . 00 .

Our Chapter also sponsors a social
"Movie Night" where favorite old and
new movies of all topics are viewed via a
VCR and big screen.

Zoo Atlanta AAZK also sponsors a
monthly continuing keeper education {
program called "Seminars In Biology". I
Thus far our speakers have included our
Curator of Mammals on Social
Behavior in Baboons; our staff
Veterinarian on Marine Mammal
Rehabilitation; and a special visit from
Sharon Motala, Director of the Belize
Zoo, Belize Central America, who spoke
on the establishment and development
of that facility.

A four-wheel drive "Trooper" was
donated to the Amboseli Elephant
Project by American ISUZU Motors in
the name of Zoo Atlanta. Zoo Atlanta
paid the freight charges for this vehicle
to be shipped. Zoo Atlanta AAZK paid
$250.00 of this freight charge.

—Tim Kurkowski
Chapter Liaison

210

Chapter News. Continued

Newly chartered or re chartered AAZK
Chapters include the following with
their current listing of officers:

Sedgwick Countv Association

of ZooKecpers (Wichita, KS)

Houston Zoo AAZK Chanter

President Ryan Gulker

Vice Pres Jody Brungardt

Sec/Treas Mary Eckert

President Cathi Lehn

Vice Pres..... Wendy Morrison

Chapter Liaison Kristi Flanders

Secretary Marilyn McBimey

Treasurer Scott Shotola

A warm welcome to all new and re-
chartering Chapters!

Chapter Liaison..... Mike Tong

Central Ariz ona Chanter
(Includes members from the Phoenix
Zoo, Wildlife World Zoo and the Primate
Foundation of Arizona)

r Please submit Chapter News by

the 15th of each month to:

Secretary Jeanne Grossmayer

Treasurer. . . . .Tracy Fleshman
Chapter Liaison Luke Thirkhill

President Mike Seidman

Vice Pres Rusty Harr

AKF Chapter News, 635 Gage
BML, Topeka, KS 66606. We
want to hear about all of your
k activities!

Member-at-Large Marge McHugh

NWRA Announces Grants Program

The National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association announces a small-grants program and
the establishment of two awards. The grant program makes funding available to support two
$1000.00 research projects in the field of wildlife rehabilitation or several smaller research
projects each totalling less than $1000.00. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and
submit a typewritten proposal that includes name(s) and resume of personnel involved,
objectives of the project, a brief description of how the project will be carried out, a brief
statement of the literature reviewed and an itemized budget. An annual report on progress is
required.

The awards include the Lifetime Achievement Award given to an individual whose primary
identification is with rehabilitation of wildlife and who has contributed to this field in a
major way for many years. The Significant Achievement Award is for a person who has
contributed something of merit to the field in the last two years. The contribution may be a
research finding, publication, organization of a program, etc. , with a major theme in wildlife
rehabilitation. Both awards consist of a plaque, $100.00, a free registration at the NWRA
conference where the award will be presented. The deadline for submittal of proposals for
the research grants and nominations for awards is 15 December of each year. They should be
sent to: Daniel R. Ludwig , Ph.D., Awards and Grants Committee , Willowbrook Wildlife
Haven , Wilowbrook Forest Preserve, P.O. Box 2339, Glen Ellyn, IL 60138 (312) 790-4900, Ext.
283.

CORRECTION

In the article "New Bird Exhibits at the Dallas Zoo", May 1987 AKF . page 149 two
errors occured in publication. In the fourth paragraph, the sixth sentence should read:
"In addition to the connecting door, there was a door on each end to allow animal
access and a double door on the back of each half to allow direct keeper access from
outside the exhibit."

The fourth sentence in the seventh paragraph should read as follows: "Two doors
access each cage, the main service gate and the keeper entrance to the shelter."

The AKF editorial staff regrets these errors. Our apologies to author Celia K. Falzone.

211

Sloughing and Feeding in Captive Young Russel's Vipers

f Vipera russelW

By

S. Paulrqj and S. Subbarayalu Naidu
Arignar Anna Zoological Park
Madras, India

In general, many snakes, soon after birth or hatch, start sloughing and take their first feed
after a period of starvation. The factor that induces first feeding, the relationship between
natal sloughing and 1st feeding, the type of first feed and the factors influencing molting
intervals are still not clear from the earlier studies. Our five-month studies on the captive-
born viper snakes has enlightened the above aspects.

The details of food, feeding and sloughing of the six captive-born Russel's viper ( Vipera
russelli ) snakes are presented in Table 1. It is viewed by some authors (Naullean, 1973 and
Groves & Altimari, 1979) that the first (natal) molt induces feeding in vipers because these
snakes start taking their first feed after natal molt. But our studies reveal that this is not
always true. Two of the six snakes in our experiment started drinking and feeding before their
natal molt. Thus, it is understood that the first feeding of newborn Russel's vipers is not
necessarily induced by the natal molt, although these two incidents (molting and feeding) are
correlated.

Regarding the food of newborn vipers, it is said (Naullean and Brule, 1981) that young vipers,
isolated from birth, accepted only small mammals (mice) and that chicks, reptiles and
amphibians were always rejected. But our studies found that this is not always the case. Our
newborn vipers were fed with frogs and sometimes with newborn rats from the date of their
first feeding. Thus, frogs are also easily accepted by the young vipers.

Regarding the factors influencing the molting interval, R.A. Staler in 1939 (referred to by
Naullean & Brule, 1981) considers that molting is influenced more by temperature than by
food intake in a crotalid snake. But our snakes, reared under similar temperature conditions
with different food intake, showed varied molting periodicity (Table 1). It is therefore
understood that different food intake may also be a factor influencing molting in snakes.

The presence of sand particles in the stomach of one of our young Russel's vipers, even before it
took its first feed, has lead us to believe that the juvenile vipers may feed on sand to start
with. But this assumption needs more evidence and requires further investigation.

Another new point revealed in our study concerns the maximum size of a single feed that a
young viper could consume. One of our young snakes, weighing 17.2gm, consumed a newborn rat
weighing 10.3gm which is nearly 60% of its own body weight. In their detailed study on
Russel’s vipers, Naullean and Brule (1981) recorded 35% of the snake's body weight as the
maximum single feed weight.

Acknowledgement:

The authors wish to express their sincere thanks to Shri S. Kondas, Chief Conservator of
Forests for his encouragements.

212

Sloughing & Feeding in Captive Born Young Russel's Vipers. Continued

References:

Groves, J.D. & Altimart, W. (1979). First breeding of the St. Lucia serpent (Bother ops
caribbaea ) in captivity. Int. Zoo Yb. 19:101-102.

Naullean, G. (1973). Rearing the Asp viper (Vipra aspis ) in captivity. Int. Zoo Yb 20:108-

111 .

Naullean, G. & Brule, V.D. (1981). Feeding, growth molt and venom production in the Russel's
Viper ( Vipra russelli) in captivity. Int. Zoo Yb. 21:163-172.

TABLE 1: Details of feeding and molting in young Russel's viper snakes, bom 28 July, 1985.

Snake

No.

Date of
natal
molt

Date of

subsequent

molt

Date of
first feeding

Average

feeding

interval

(days)

Remarks

1

29.7.85

...

7.9.85

7.5

Died on

24.10.85
with sand
in stomach.

2

26.9.85

10.9.85

3.6

Natal molt
was delayed.

Died on

28.9.85.

3

29.7.85

24.10.85
and

11.12.85

10.9.85

6.5

Largest young,
alive.

4

29.7.85

25.9.85

6.9.85

6.3

Alive

5

nil

nil

nil

Died on

6.9.85. Drank
water on

2.9.85. No
natal molt.
Stomach had
sand particles

6

29.7.85

29.9.85
and

27.11.85

10.9.95

6.5

Alive

213

Elephant Set

The Breeding of the Asian Elephant
lElmhOS maximus) in China

Compiled by

Yoshi. Yonetani

Zoo/DEL, Zoo Design Si Education Lab
Kobe , Japan

(Author's note: The following has been compiled from information provided by Mr. Zhang j
Cizu, the Vice Director of the Shanghai Zoo.)

Banna used to be one of a herd of wild elephants which roamed the autonomous region of
Xishuangbana, Yunnan Province, one of the famous spots in China. She was caputured by staff
from the Shanghai Zoo with the use of a tranquilizing syringe rifle in Octoberl971.
Estimated to be approximately seven years old, Banna was moved to the Zoo in May of 1972
and became sexually mature two years after her capture.

In May of 1976, she was mated with Bamo, a bull elephant originally from Burma. Bamo
arrived in Beijin at the age of three years and was transferred to Shanghai in 1973. On 14
June, 1978, after a 644-day gestation period, Banna gave birth to her first calf, a female
named Ina. Ina weighed 89 kg at birth, stood 85 cm, had a length of 82 cm with a 38cm trunk.
On 31 December, 1982, Banna calved her second offspring, another female named Ema. On 23
May, 1986, Banna produced her first male offspring. By this time, the female Ina had died at
the age of five years due to a disease.

In this connection, the following zoo facilities have a breeding record for the Asian elephant
in China at present: the Guangzhou Zoo has had two births; the Kunming Zoo & the
Hangzhou Zoo have each produced one offspring; and the Beijin Zoo holds the Chinese record
having had three births occur there, but their 20-year-old female unfortunately died in 1985.

The capture, domesticating and breeding of wild elephants is still in the preliminary stages
in China, which is nevertheless significant in the preservation of these rare and precious

animals.

Eelid Research 8l 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 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 Zoologu, OSU, 1 735 Neil Ave., Columbus,
OH 43210.

214

The Best Way to Control Environmental
Sanitation and Related Pest Problems in Zoos

By

James M. Neely, R.P.E.

Environmental Sciences Management Consultant
Big Canoe, Georgia

The sensitive nature of a zoo and animal care facility makes essential the need for
knowledgeable and effective sanitation and pest control practices. Since animals,
particularly exotic species and those under stress, cannot defend themselves from attackers,
rodents and other pests, they fall easy prey to illness, injury and even death if the problem is
not addressed. And it is to the zoo's advantage to handle this problem at the source, not at the
symptom, for protection of the wildlife and for sheer, simple cost-effectiveness.

In handling me environmental sanitation and pest problems particular to zoos, extreme
caution must be taken to avoid presenting any hazard to the animals and to the personnel
involved in their well-being. The days of buying over-the-counter products and spraying or
sprinkling it about are gone. Rules and regulations restricting pesticide products, the need for
better understanding of pest problems and the concern over pesticide effects on surrounding
areas have all added up to a reliance on a professional and total approach, especially in this
sensitive environment.

In our experience, we've encountered unusual pest problems that included wild dogs entering a
facility in packs at night and attacking deer, fire ant infestation harbored within plant
material in a habitat exhibit, and rodents, feral cats and pigeons eating animal feed and
creating a nuisance, as well as the more traditional cockroaches and insects that present a
constant problem. We’ve also noticed a trend to downplay and minimize these problems until
crisis proportions.

Traditionally, pest control companies have provided the chemical spraying that relieved
these problems for the short term. Quick control and reduction of high pest populations have
resulted. But spraying or dusting does not remove the cause of the problem and insects and
rodents will develop resistance to chemicals. Since zoos are increasingly under pressure to
effect cost savings while maintaining quality environments, by necessity it becomes important
to look for more permanent solutions.

The best way to handle these problems is by training your own in-house person to cope with
these sanitation and pest situations. By using your own employee, you are tapping into an
individual's proven commitment to find appropriate solutions and live with them.

In one situation, an in-house employee was selected to be responsible for the sanitation and
pest control functions at the facility, with support training provided for 75-100 employees at
all levels in basic environmental sanitation and pest control techniques. The staff training
occurred simultaneously as the employee obtained his certification. Upon licensing, the
employee will assume all training on a regular basis. The pest control company will be
retained as backup to these efforts, resulting in virtual elimination of call-backs and
substantial reduction of annual cost. But by far, the best benefit to already occur is having
someone on-site who can spot emerging problems before they escalate into major ones.

We hear zoo management tell us that though they'd like to pursue this approach, they are
concerned about the scope and cost of such a program and about its labor-intensiveness if the
problems are complex. In-house training, however, does not have to imply a massive
restructuring of personnel or a substantial up-front cost. It can be as simple as selection of one
qualified individual either by management or from an interested applicant pool who is
willing to first study to obtain state certification and who agrees to participate in a continuing
education program to keep the license current. Once licensed, the person agrees to train the zoo

215

Controlling Environmental Sanitation & Pest Problems in Zoos . ContcL

staff on a regular, on-going schedule with sessions held three to six times per year. Regular
duties can be adjusted around this schedule, with merit increases built in at specific intervals.

As management becomes more and more aware of the positive aspects of this approach for
permanently solving problems and of its major cost-effectiveness, we are responding to this
increasing interest. As a company, we are totally committed to this process of selection,
certification and training of in-house personnel, as the best, most cost-effectient and effective
solution to an on-going problem.

m

KEEPER'S ALERT

One of the things that keepers and zoo staff everywhere have in common is a repertiore of
"zoo stories". Whenever zoo people get together they always seem to end up trading these
stories, each teller trying to top the last. Many of them are humorous (at least in a morbid
sort of way), and many are serious, if not sobering. And some end up being classics within the
institution that everyone hears sooner or later.

We would like to put together a collection of these stories from zoos around the country (and
overseas if possible), and would like to include any that you might have heard at your zoo.
Some topics might be:

• Animal feats and escapades
•Keeper stories
•Veterinary stories

•Things that visitors have said and done
•Animals misidentified or mispronounced by visitors
•Unusual phone calls

There are many others, obviously, but those suggestions should help to get things started. Of
particular interest are those stories from the "old days" that may be lost as people retire.
Often those stories concern animals, people, and even buildings that are no longer around and
as a result many new employees never hear them.

The next time you're sitting around at lunch or coffee break and hear a couple of good zoo
stories, why not take a few minutes to write them down and send them in. Please include as
many details as possible. Send your submissions to: John Stoddard , c/o Brookfield Zoo AAZK, t

3300 Golf Rd., Brookfield , IL 60513.

Cheetah Interest Group

The time has come! The knowledge and experience of cheetah keepers and enthusiasts j
will be the basis for the Cheetah Interest Group now forming. This group will provide
an additional source of information on cheetah husbandly, 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: Adrian Haft, Louisville Zoo, P.O. Box 37250, Louisville, j
KY 40233. Phone : (502) 459-2181 .

216

Potoroo Palatibility Project
©r

"How to Foil Potoroos and Have Green Plants in Your Exhibit"

By

Dee Sliney, Research Aide
and

Judie Steenberg, Australasian Unit Keeper
Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA

A four-week research project was conducted at Woodland Park Zoo in the summer of 1986 to
test the following theories:

1. Animals become accustomed to plants in their exhibit and pay less
attention to them as time goes on.

2. An adequate supply of "favored" plant material will reduce interaction
with other plants.

Potoroos usually inhabit thick and dense undergrowth as well as open woodland and cleared
areas. They are nocturnal with a diet that includes herbage and roots; they have digging and
trampling habits and often hide under plants (Walker). The exhibit chosen for this project
contains three male potoroos ( Potorous tridactylus apicalis ) (Strahan). The animals have
access to an area 19.55 feet x 15.85 feet (5.96 x 4.83 meters) at the widest point with a 10-20
inch deep (25-50 centimeters) sand substrate. A skylighted roof provides a natural
photoperiod.

The project was structured to introduce eight commonly-available and attractive potted plants
into the exhibit. The plants included: prayer plant ( Maranta leuconeura ), two plams
0 Chamaedorea erumpens ). Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema) . pothos or devil's ivy (Scindapsis
aureus) , grape ivy ( Cissus rhombifolia ), peace lily ( Spathiphyllum ) , and ^philodendron
( Philodendron spp. ). During the first week the plants had no protection from the potoroos.
During the second week rocks of various sizes were placed around the potted plants. For the
third week wire protection was added to the beleaguered prayer plant, and additional larger
rocks were added to any plants needing them. During the fourth week of the study the wire
and rocks were removed, leaving the plants completely unprotected as they had been for the
first week. The fourth week was designed to check for any conditioning that had occurred
during the course of the study. In addition to the eight introduced plants, three places in the
exhibit were allocated for clumps of tall grass with roots, and three more for turf (short or
mowed grass) sections. The clumps and turf remained unprotected for the duration of the study.

Specific questiones to be answered by the study included:

1. Which species of plants were preferred?

2. Which part(s) of the plant were consumed?

3. Which potoroo was doing the eating and/or damaging the plants?

4. What effect would grass clumps and pieces of turf have on reducing

tropical plant damage?

* Classified as toxic (Kingsbury)

217

Potoroo Plant Palatibilitv Research Project. Continued

The project was structured so that plants were replaced (if needed) or protection added
on Fridays, and fresh clumps and turf were put in on Fridays and Tuesdays. All plant
materials were well-watered before being placed in the exhibit and, in addition, were
misted or watered on Tuesdays, as needed. All plants used in the project were selected
based on condition, size of pot, and size of plant. An effort was made to use the same
size and condition of a plant species for the four consecutive weeks of the study. The
plants were left in their pots and sunk in the sand up to the rim.

Observations were conducted from the visitor’s viewing area on Monday, Tuesday, and
Friday evenings from 1800-2000 hours ( a period of high activity for the potoroos), for
a total of five hours per week. Checksheets enabled the observed to note the specific
activity (sniff, dig, eat, or trample) of each potoroo with respect the each plant, clump,
or turf. Any contact with a particular plant which lasted more than one minute was 1
recorded as an additional interaction. Enclosure temperatures and outside weather
conditions were also recorded on each checksheet to see if these factors had any jj
bearing on potoroo activity. On a daily basis keepers working in the unit recorded the
following information on a plant condition checksheet: a) no change, b) some leaves
eaten, c) attempted to get at roots, d) top destroyed (eaten), e) pulled from pot, f)
destroyed (not eaten).

Results

All plants, clumps, and turf were contacted by all three potoroos. As shown on the
accompanying graphs, the prayer plant received considerably more attention than did
the seven other potted plants all four weeks of the study. The roots proved to be the
attractive element of the prayer plant; the leaves were ignored or bitten off and
discarded. During the second week the plant was dug up and destroyed despite the
heavy rocks which the animals moved. The third week, when a wire barrier covered
the roots, the potoroos shifted from digging and eating the prayer plant to trampling it ;
and pulling it through the wire, destroying it just as effectively. Both palms received a j
moderate amount of attention during the first week, when access was unrestricted, j
The other potted plants were contacted less frequently.

All grass clumps and turf sections proved highly attractive to the potoroos throughout
the study, particualrly the turf which, even during the first week, was eaten and
trampled more often than the prayer plant (which, however, was dug into more
frequently). During the second week, when the animals could not get to the roots of the
potted plants, contact with the clumps and turf increased significantly. During the
third week activity decreased (compared with the second week) for all protected plants
and also for the unprotected clumps and turf sections, indicating that the animals i
were probably becoming accustomed to the presence of the new plants in the exhibit |
and were paying less attention to them. During the final week of the study, when all I
protective rocks and wire were removed, all of the potted plants, with the exception of 1
the grape ivy, were contacted less frequently than they had been during the first week.
The animals’ activity was directed instead toward the clumps and the turf.

The conclusions of the study were:

1. The potoroos did pay less attention to potted plants by the

fourth week... conditioning does occur.

2. The presence of fresh clumps and turf directly reduced the

amount of interaction with the potted plants.

3. Prayer plants were extremely attractive to the potoroos, whether

protected or not.

4. Various plant protection strategies that were effective as deterrents

were: —Keeping plants in pots.

-Covering the dirt with large as well as quantities of various-sized
rocks.

—Round rocks were rolled out of the pots while sharp-edged rocks
were harder for the potoroos to move.

—Angling plants away from window ledges and logs prevented the
eating of upper leaves.

218

Potoroo Plant Palatibilitv Research Project. Continued

The most important element was the availability of the "preferred" plant materials, such as
turf and clumps. An additional benefit of providing these materials became evident after the
completion of the study, when fresh grass clumps were placed in the exhibit in mid-morning,
normally an inactive time for the potoroos. The clumps created a flurry of activity, causing
several visitors to remark that they "hadn't realized that those animals could move". Now,
seven months after the study, activity can be generated at any time by the addition of fresh
clumps or turf to the exhibit. One final note: the potoroos’ diet includes either chopped celery,
romaine or kale. There was no change in their consumption of these food items during the
study.

We would like to acknowledge the cooperation of Keepers Chuck Harke and Diane Yoshimi
for their help with this project. Plants for the study were donated by Interiors in Green, a
local plant leasing and maintenance company.

References

Kingsbury, John M., Poisonous Plants of the United States and Canada. Prentice-Hall, Inc.,
New Jersey, 1964.

Strahan, Ronald, ed. , The Australian Museum Complete Book of Australian Mammals.
Angus and Robertson, Publishers, Sydney, 1983.

Walker, Ernest P., Mammals of the World, The John Hopkins University Press,
Baltimore, 1975, 1:101.

Graphs are charted to show
frequency of occurance.

PH I LODENDRON

PRAYER PLANT

Note: During the 2nd and 3rd week, the prayer plant had been
dug or pulled from the pot within a few hours of being in
the exhibit.

219

Potoroo Plant Palatibilitv Research Project. Continued

35

rJi

1 1

oo
oo
oo
oo
oo
oo
oo
__oo

SNIFF

1* 2. 3
1 $

n _J li

DIG

oo77

EAT

PALM II

U 2 - 3

13

TRAMPLE

SNIFF

DIG

J

EAT

TRAMPLE

CHINESE EVERGREEN

GRAPE IVY

220

Potoroo Plant Palatibilitv Research Project, Continued

POTHOS OR DEVIL'S IVY

PEACE LILY

SNIFF DIG EAT TRAMPLE

27

22

10

36

1J

SNIFF

25

19

TURF
69

20

14

_0©

00

00

00

__00

DIG

I

CLUMP

SNIFF DIG EAT TRAMPLE

221

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) 229-771 1 [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 Zoological Park, Detroit, MI
for the states of MI, IN, KY, and OH
Chris Garland, North Carolina Zoological Park, Asheboro, NC
for the states of NC,SC,TN, and 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) 292-6314 [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, 2355 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! They will be glad to assist you with any
information you need about AAZK.

222

AAZK Keeper Training Video Tape Project

The goal of the AAZK Keeper Training Video Tape Project is to
produce quality video tape training programs suitable to supplement
existing in-house training of entry level keepers. These tapes are not
intended to be a complete training program in themselves. All
proceeds generated from the sale of training tapes will be used to
finance production of future training tapes. Two tapes are currently
available.

Zoo Keever Safety: An Attitude Adjustment - This 18-minute
program does not attempt to address the numerous variable specifics
of this subject. It presents a safety approach to the job of zoo
keeping, and promotes constant awareness and personal
responsibility for safety.

A Zoo Keeper's Introduction to Feeds and Feeding - A half-hour
introduction to the complex subject of feeds and feeding of zoo
animals. Topics covered include what, when, and where to feed.

AAZK Keeper Training Video Tape Purchase Agreement
Responsibilities and Restrictions of the Buyer

1) The tape may not be duplicated or made available to any person or
institution for the purpose of duplication.

2) The tape may not be utilized for any commercial purpose.

3) Should the buyer decide the tape will not be useful to their train-
ing program, the undamaged tape may be returned within 14 days
of receipt of a partial refund - $10 for BETA and VHS, $18 for 3/4
inch.

I, the undersigned, accept the responsibility for the restrictions

listed above.

Name: (type or print)

Signature: Date:

Organization/Institution:

Shipping Address:

City. State: „ Zip:

Telephone: ( ) ,

Tape Title:

Format: BETA VHS 3/4 INCH

$25 $25 $35

Make checks payable to: ' AAZK Keeper Training Video Tape Project”.

Mail To: B. Wayne Buchanan, Woodland Park Zoological Gardens, 5500
Phinney Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98103.

223

Institutiuons wishing to advertise employment opportunities are asked to send pertinent
data by the 15th of each month to: Opportunity Knocks/ AKF . 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.

ANIMAL KEEPER/MAMMAL DEPT.. ...at Baltimore Zoo. Salary $13,314. Each candidate
must have graduated from an accredited high school and have one year of 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 handling 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: Sandy Kempske, Curator of Mammals, Baltimore Zoo, Druid
Hill Park, Baltimore, MD 21217.

ANIMAL KEEPER/ANIMAL HOSPITAL at Baltimore Zoo. Salary $13,314. Each

candidate must have graduated from an accredited high school and have one year paid
experience in the care and handling of a variety of animals, excluding pets;
or have graduated from an accredited high school and have 6 months ex-
perience in the care and handling 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 the veterinarian or other senior staff. All resumes to be sent to: Dr. Michael
Cranfield, Veterinarian, Baltimore Zoo, Druid Hill Park, Baltimore, MD 21217

REGISTRAR at Indianapolis Zoo. Requires ability in zoological and botani-

cal records collection management. Must be detail oriented and capable of
functioning in a team atmosphere involved in the construction of a new zoo facil-
ity. Four year degree and a minimum of two years’ experience preferred. Salary
range $15,000-$21,000. Send resume to: Richard M. Hurst, Director of Human
Resources, Indianapolis Zoo, 3120 E. 30th St., Indianapolis, IN 46218.

AVICULTURAL TRAINEESHIP full-time position requires one year commit-

ment. Will receive intensive hands-on training in care and maintenance of en-
dangered cranes. 10% of time will be spent on independent project. $4 .00/ hr.
plus benefits. Send letter of interest and three references 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.

PRODUCT SALES ..... new company seeks animal knowledgeable person interested in sales of a
new, natural liquid oil-based product containing sulfur, brewer's yeast, garlic, and other
vitamins. This product is used as a food supplement for dogs and cats. Individuals interested
are requested to call (707) 632-5571 or write: Paragon, 11 Mosswood Circle, Cazadero, CA 95421.

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MOVING? Don’t Forget to send your new address to
AAZK National HQ, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606

224

AAZK Membership Application

Nam e 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 8 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 will 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.

DEADLINE FQR EACH EDITION 1$ 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.

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edicated to Professional Animal Care

ANIMAL KEEPERS' FORUM. 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606

Executive Editor: Alice Miser August 1987

Managing Editor: Susan Chan Volume Fourteen
Associate Editor: Ron Ringer NumberE2ght

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 C ommitt ee

Phil Pennock, Woodland Park
Awards Committee
Rachel Rogers, Miami Metrozoo
Book Review Coordinator

Kathy Sucharitakul, Akron Zoo

Legislative Action C ommi ttee

Becky Rogers, Topeka Zoo

Internationa, LAffair s C oord in ator s - Melba Shields,
Calgary Zoo (west)

Staff. Exchange

Elandra Aum, Woodland Park Zoo

Program Library

Debbie Jackson, Little Rock Zoo

E xhibit D esign F o r m

Diane Forsyth, Akron Zoo

Keeper Accommodations List.

Oliver Claffey, Metro Toronto Zoo
Keeper Training Videotape
Wayne Buchanan, Woodland Park Zoo
Keeper Tra in ing Ma ter ia l s Id e n tifica tio n

Rosemary Jalink, Mill Mountain Zoo

Referenc e Search

Liz McLaughlin, Roger Williams Park Zoo
Jenny Rentfrow, Mason, MI

Keeper Education Committee

Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo
R^search/Gra n ts ...C ommitt ee

Kaci Thompson, NZP
£lLb.l.i.C.— Education Comm ittee

Jay Jasan, Staten Island Zoo
AAZK History Committee

Art Goodrich, San Diego Zoo
National Zoo (east) and Pam McDougall,

Animal Data Transfer Form

Bemie Feldman, Burnet Park Zoo

Membership-.; Directory

Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo

Diet Notebook

Susan Bunn, Minnesota Zoo

B.iQlQgi.cal-_Y. alu es/. Ge st a t ion .

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

CO-DIRE C TORS REGIO N AL CO ORD INA TORS

States East of the Mississippi - Diane Krug, White Oak Plantation, Yulee, FL
States West of Mississipp i - 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 features the white or square-lipped rhinoceros [ Ceratotherium
simum) drawn by Gwen Yoshimura, a keeper at the Honolulu Zoo. Native to the
African continent, this species of rhino as well as all others, are endangered due to
poaching of the animals for their horns. The horns are used to make carved dagger
handles considered a sign of masculinity and power in the country of Yemen and are
also used in making traditional folk medicines in the Far East. Thanks, Gwen!

SCOOPS

SCUTTLEBUTT

New Board Members Named Following Election

Nominations and Elections Committee Chairperson Janet MaCoy, Washington Park Zoo, has
notified National Headquarters of the results of the election for the AAZK Board of
Directors. Re-elected to serve second terms were Frank Kohn, National Zoo, and Oliver
Claffey, Metro Toronto Zoo. Newly elected for a first term is Mary L. Swanson, Fresno Zoo.
These Board Members will begin their terms on 1 January 1988 and serve a three-year term of
office. Current Board member Susan M. Barnard, Zoo Atlanta, will continue her term of office
until 1989. Current AAZK President, Jean Hromadka, San Diego Wild Animal Park, will be
stepping down from her Board position effective 31 December, 1987.

Due to the resignation of Kerry Hoffman, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Brint Spencer of the
Minnesota Zoo will fill this Board position until 1989. Brint received the fourth highest
number of votes in this year’s election following Frank, Oliver and Mary and was therefore
appointed by the current Board to fill this vacancy.

Congratulations to the newly elected Board members. The Association is indebted to these
individuals who are willing to give of their time and talents for the betterment of AAZK.
The National Association thanks all those members who ran for Board positions for their
interest and commitment.

A special thank you to Kerry Hoffman who will be leaving the Board following a career
move to the Reid Park Zoo, Tucson, where he will be Curator of Education. We wish Kerry
every success in his new position and know that he will continue to work hard for AAZK in his
new capacity. His energy and sense of humor will be sorely missed at the annual Board
Meetings.

A Not e fr om ZQQ India

Zoo Outreach Organization is very pleased with the response to the Keeper Sponsorship
program by individual members and chapters of AAZK. We have included these sponsors on
our mailing list to receive our monthly magazine Zoo's Print on a complimentary basis and we
will do so for any chapter or individual who sponsors an Indian keeper.

Individuals wishing to subscribe to Zoo's Print are invited to do so for $50.00 per year. Checks
made out to Zoo Outreach Organization should be sent to our new address: Sally Walker,
Editor, Zoo's Print. Pioneer House, Peelamedu, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641 004, India.

225

From the President

Throughout my term as President, I have tried to focus my attention on some of the
Association's vulnerable areas. Of course, these obstacles can be quickly overcome through the
assistance of the general membership. The support each individual offers the AAZK
organization not only strengthens our group as a whole but is a responsibility that we all
inherit when we decide to become a part of a professional organization.

Probably one of the most alarming misconceptions that I am faced with as president of a
national organization is that there are still many individuals who believe that they
instantly become an AAZK member listed at National Headquarters solely by joining their
local AAZK Chapter. This simply is not true. Unless the National membership dues are
combined with local chapter dues (if your chapter charges dues), and your chapter officers
take on the additional responsibility of sending in the National dues for you, you cannot be
legally listed as a member of AAZK. You must first join AAZK through AAZK National
Headquarters before you can be allowed to be acepted as a member of your local chapter. Like
other national organizations, whether it be the Boy Scouts of America or some national
fraternity or sorority, you must first be recognized by the national or parent organization before
you can join the local chapter which is merely an off-shoot or extention of the national
organization.

Our chapters are a vital branch of the organization created primarily to represent our
professional zoo keeper association on a more local level. A chapter cannot exist without the
parent organization. Once a chapter begins to operate too independently of the national
organization by ignoring the national association’s by-laws and recommendations suggested by
the presently elected or appointed officials of the national organization, the chapter ceases to
genuinely represent the association. The link between these two identities must remain
steadfast and their intended direction should parallel if the organization is to continue to
prosper. It is not our intention to burden our members with cumbersome national and local
membership dues or to dictate to chapters what they can and can’t do. We were meant to
compliment each other by striving for the same goals established by the founding fathers
twenty years ago. The National Board of Directors was elected to act as the voice for the
AAZK membership, to advise and guide anyone or anything related to our organization, as
long as it is in accordance with the policies predetermined by the members of AAZK. This does
not mean that these policies cannot be properly challenged by the membership, but those
disputing the Association's doctrines must first be a national member in order for their
griviences to be heard.

Since an enormous amount of confusion remains when determining the role and responsibilities
of local chapters and their members, a special Chapter Reform committee has been set up and
will offer assistance to those chapters experiencing difficulty or to accept any comments or
suggestions you may have concerning chapter affairs. At this time you may contact Mary
Swanson at the Fresno Zoo who has graciously agreed to head this committee. There will also
be a special session held at the AAZK National Conference this year in Milwaukee addressing
chapter problems and discussing ways to solve them. Anyone wishing to help Mary on this
committee or to speak out on chapters pro/con at Milwaukee, please contact Mary ASAP.

Another newly established committee is the AAZK By-Law Review Board. Marilyn Cole of
the Metro Toronto Zoo has agreed to chair this important committee. As the Association
continues to experience regular growing pains, we find it necessary to make the proper
adjustments to remain compatible with the ever-changing policies and procedures introduced
over the years. Many changes have occurred since the AAZK By-laws were first incorporated
in 1982. There is a very real need to update and clarify some of the Association's policies and
procedures without making the constitution appear too stringent.

If there are sections of the constitution that you personally do not agree with, do not
understand, or feel are much too vague, please write to Marilyn stating your views. If you are
interested in sitting on this particular committee, do not hesitate to let Marilyn now. Again,
more discussion on AAZK's By-laws are presently being worked into the agenda for the
National Conference in Milwaukee so please plan to express your opinions.

226

From the President. Continued

On that note. I'd like to take this opportunity to remind the membership that the AAZK
members from the Milwaukee area are working very hard to prepare an exciting conference
planned for this fall. From 4-8 October, 1987, AAZK's 13th Annual Conference will be hosted
by the Milwaukee County Zoo's AAZK Chapter. A special celebration is being planned for
AAZK’s 20th Anniversary with some of the original founders present for all to meet. The folks
in Milwaukee promise to offer not only a stimulating as well as educational experience, but
time has been set aside to have fun and relax. Following the conference, a post-conference tour
has been set up by AAZK members from Lincoln Park Zoo, Brookfield Zoo and John C. Shedd
Aquarium. They are very anxious to provide the delegates with behind-the-scenes tours along
with some other activities planned while visiting their area. Please refer to your back issues
of the AKF to locate additional information for these two upcoming events. I look forward to
seeing you all there.

Jean Hromadaka
AAZK President

Keeper’s Alert

One of the things that keepers and zoo staff everywhere have in common is a repertiore of
"zoo stories". Whenever zoo people get together they always seem to end up trading these
stories, each teller trying to top the last. Many of them are humorous (at least in a morbid
sort of way), and many are serious, if not sobering. And some end up being classics within the
institution that everyone hears sooner or later.

We would like to put together a collection of these stories from zoos around the country (and
overseas if possible), and would like to include any that you might have heard at your zoo.
Some topics might be:

• Animal feats and escapades
•Keeper stories
•Veterinary stories

•Things that visitors have said and done
•Animals misidentified or mispronounced by visitors
•Unusual phone calls

There are many others, obviously, but those suggestions should help to get things started. Of
particular interest are those stories from the "old days" that may be lost as people retire.
Often those stories concern animals, people, and even buildings that are no longer around and
as a result many new employees never hear them.

The next time you're sitting around at lunch or coffee break and hear a couple of good zoo
stories, why not take a few minutes to write them down and send them in. Please include as

many details as possible. Send your submissions to: John Stoddard, c/o Brookfield Zoo AAZK,
3300 Golf Rd., Brookfield, IL 60513.

227

Coming Events

Third Annual Great Lakes Regional Conference

August 28-30, 1987 Toledo, OH

Hosted by the Toledo AAZK Chapter. Topic: The Zoological Institution's Role in the
Preservation and Conservation of African Species — A Keeper's Perspective. PAPERS
WANTED! For further information, contact Bill Whittaker, Toledo Zoo, 2700 Broadway,
Toledo, OH 43609 (419) 385-5721.

1 987 AAZPA A nnuaLC onf ergnce

September 20-24,1987 Portland, OR

For more information contact: Jane Hartline, Director of Public Relations, Washington Park
Zoo, 4001 S.W. Canyon Rd., Portland, OR 97221 (503) 226-1561.

19.87. A AZ K.N a . ti ona l Conferenc e

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 209 of the July 1987 issue of AKF
and send to Pat Sammarco at Lincoln Park as soon as possible.

Third Annual AZAD Conference

October 9-11, 1987 Los Angeles, CA

Association of Zoo and Aquarium Docents Confernce will feature papers on Docent
Recruitment, Training, Outreach Programs and Docent Concerns. For more information
contact: 1987 AZAD Program Chairman, Los Angeles Zoo Association 5333 Zoo Drive, Los
Angeles, CA 90027-1489.

.Tropical Rainforests; interdependence, ^Responsibility"

October 16-18, 1987 New York, NY

Sponsored by the New York Rainforest Alliance, the conference will be held at Hunter
College, Lexington Ave. at 68th St. Noted economists, scientists, conservationists, and
corporate representatives will gather to discuss the ways we in the developed world are
connected to and dependent on the tropical rainforest environment, and actions that can be
taken to preserve this environment for future generations. Registration fee is $60.00. To
register or obtain further information contact: New York Rainforest Alliance, 320 Park Ave,
30th Floor, New York, NY 10022 (212) 906-1694.

228

Coming Events, continued

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.

1988 AAZPA Regional Conferences

AAZPA Western Regional - 6-8 March, 1988 - for more information contact: Charles Farwell,
Aquarist/ Curator, Monterey Bay Aquarium, 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940 (408) 649-
6466.

AAZPA Southern Regional -20-22 March, 1988 - for more information contact: Al Fontana,
Assistant Director, or Gordon Hubbell, DVM, Miami Metrozoo, 12400 S.W. 152 St., Miami, FL
33177(305)251-0401.

AAZPA Central Regional - 10-12 April, 1988 - For more information contact: Michael LaRue,
Assistant Director, Topeka Zoological Park, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, Ks 66606 (913) 272-5821.
(This is a great opportunity to visit AAZK National Headquarters!)

AAZPA Great Lakes Regional - 24-27 April, 1988 - for more information contact: David
Lonsdale, Assistant Director, John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 South Lake Shore Drive,
Chicago, FL 60605 (312) 939-2426.

AAZPA Northeastern Regional - 1-3 May, 1988 - for more information contact: Peter
Crowcroft, Director, Salisbury Zoological Park, Box 3163, Salisbury, MD 21801 (301) 548-3188.

&

Keeper's Alert

In the May 1987 issue of AKF . the Public Education Committee solicited answers
from the membership to questions frequently asked by zoo visitors. The committee
is seeking the "best" answers to such questions to incorporate in a booklet. The
following is the second question restated and the answers received by the committee.
Another frequently asked question will appear at the end of this article - please take a
few minutes and put your thoughts together and send them to: Ellen Bradfield at the
address given.

Question #2 was: "Why do zoos exist?"

The answer to Question #2 is:

Zoos provide a place where researchers can learn more about animals in a safe
environment. Also, when people visit zoos, it is hoped that they will be excited and
amazed at the variety of life here on Earth. It is hoped that they will be concerned
about the fate of wild animal species and that they may want to do something to help.
In order for this to happen zoos must be able to teach people while they’re having fun.
As Baba Diom Senegel once said, "We will conserve only what we love. We will love
only what we understand, and we will understand only what we are taught."

Question # 3 will be: "How do zoos get their animals?"

Please send any comments or suggestions to: Ellen Bradfield, Zoo Atlanta AAZK, 800
Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta, GA 30315.

229

Births & Hatchings

The Columbus Zoo AAZK Chapter reports the following births and hatchings for January
through June 1987. As usual, our Reptile Dept, continues to be amazingly prolific. They are
especially proud to report the following hatchings, which are first-times for any zoo for these
species: 0.0.2 Alabama map turtle and 0.0.4 Black knobbed map turtle. Other hatchings
include: 0.0.1 Pancake tortoise, 0.0.19 Ceylon hill turtle, 0.0.11 Crucilla turtle, 0.0.3 Giant hill
turtle, 0.0.1 Gibba turtle, 0.0.1 Central American giant musk turtle, 0.0.3 African mud turtle, 0.0.8
Red cheeked mud turtle, 0.0.11 Siam skink, 0.0.4 African fat-tailed gecko, 0.0.4 Leopard gecko,
0.0.1 Pacific Island boa, 0.0.24 Egyptian cobra, and 0.0.3 False water cobra.

The Mammals section also had its fair share of successes this year. The Zoo's long-term
breeding program for cheetahs and lowland gorillas continue to yield impressive results. On 27
January, the cheetah Jahari delivered 3.3 cubs; this litter was 3rd generation in our Zoo and
fourth generation in the U.S. On 1 1 May, Sukari had 3.1 cubs, making this her fifth litter. Both
litters were sired by Duey, a male born in Holland. Our collection now totals 28 cheetahs. Our
lowland gorilla collection also continues to expand. On 2 January, our female Toni produced a
male offspring sired by Sunshine, who is owned by the San Francisco Zoo. This is Sunshine's
first offspring. The infant, J.J., had to be pulled for hand-rearing, but efforts are now underway to
introduce him to his grandmother, Colo, for rearing. On 27 March, a female offspring was born to
Lulu, owned by the Bronx Zoo, and Sunshine. She was the largest gorilla infant ever born at
Columbus, weighing 5lbs 7oz at birth. She was pulled immediately after birth to be raised at the
Bronx Zoo.

There were also some significant first-time mammal births for Columbus. On 25 May, the Zoo
experienced the births of 1.2 Chinese lesser pandas after having these rare animals in the
collection for about a year. This June, 2.1 pronghorn fawns (1.1 DNS) were born, making this
one of the very few such births east of the Mississippi. Other first-time births for Columbus
include 4.4 Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs and 0.0.3 African hedgehogs (DNS). A 0.1 Axis deer
and a 0.0.1 black and white Colobus monkey represent first-time births for two species
reintroduced to our collection.

Other notable births include: 1.2 Bengal tiger (0.1 is white), 1.0 Reeves; muntjac (this is the 3rd
offspring from our pair within two years), 1.0 Topi (we are one of only seven U.S. institutions
exhibiting this species), 0.1 Dromedary camel, 1.0 American plains bison, 1.3 Four-horned
sheep, 1.2 Cotton-topped tamarins (Triplets;DNS), and 2.0 Common marmosets (1 DNS).
Submitted by Carl Gyarmaty, Columbus Zoo.

The Bronx Zoo Chapter reports the following notable births and hatchings for the month of
June. The Mammology Dept, proudly announces the following significant births. First, the New
York Zoological Society's commitment to the endangered Snow leopard ( Panthera uncia) paid
off with the birth of three healthy cubs. The three were the first born in our Zoo's new facility,
The Himilayan Highlands, but the fifty-first, -second, and -third born at the Bronx Zoo over the
past several years. The captive breeding project for the Proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus)
continues with the birth of a male on 16 June. The Proboscis monkey is considered
endangered and have been given a CITES I designation. Next, though not endangered but a
crowd pleaser never the less, three California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) pups were born
during the month of June. On 22 June, a male Boringo giraffe (Giraffa camelopardis rothschildi)
was born. As of this writing, the calf had not been introduced to the rest of the herd but is
expected to be soon. The following births are included because the species are endangered in
nature: 0.0.1 Pen-tailed bettong (Bettopia pencillata) : 0.1 Barasingha (Cervus duvauceli ) : 0.1
Gaur (Bqs gaurus) : and last but not least, 0.0.1 Mouflon (Ovis musimon ) .

230

BIRTHS & HATCHINGS. Continued

The Ornithology Dept, reports the following significant hatchings: 0.0.1 Hooded Crane (Grus
monachal 0.0.3 Malayan peacock pheasant (Polvolectron malacense l). There is also a follow-
up note on the three Waldrapp ibis (Geronticus e remit a ) which hatched earlier this year. All
three have feldged, taking between 48 and 51 days to make their first flight.

The Herpetology Dept, has also been successful in the breeding of endangered species in the
form of 0.0.6 Coahuilan box turtle (Terraoene coahuiia ) : and 0.0.5 Carolina pygmy
rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius miliarius) . The Carolina pygmy rattlesnake is a rapidly disappearing
subspecies in nature and the birth of these five represent the beginning of a captive breeding
program for them. Submitted by Mark L. Hofling, Corresponding Secretary, Bronx Zoo Chapter.

The Children's Zoo of Audubon Zoo reports the birth of 0.0.5 African hedgehog (Ateierix
albiventris) . This brings their collection to 26 individuals. The original five animals were all wild
caught. The hedgehogs are housed separately, and the male hedgehogs are introduced to the
females only for one night of breeding. The zoo's hedgehogs are into their third generation and
after nine more litters they will be eligible for the AAZPA Silver propagation award.

The American flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber ) population is booming this year. Thirteen
individuals have hatched with several more expected. This more than doubles last year's record.
The latest hatchling, "Baby T" is the offspring of #93 and #52. However, #52 left #93 for another
female, leaving #93 alone. Now single, she was an unfit parent so her egg was taken to the
orphan egg incubator. It was later given to the chickless couple #39 and #22 to raise as their
adopted offspring. Overall a happy ending except for the abandoned #93.

The blue-crowned mot mots (Momotus momota) have young. Although mot mot hatchings are
fairly common, our situation is unique in that we have two adult pairs in the same exhibit.
Normally one pair will run off the other. However, both pairs hatched their eggs and now that the
birds have fledged the parents either can't tell or don't care which babies belong to whom. They
feed and care for whoever is there at the time.

First time hatchings at the Zoo include: 0.0.3 Radjah shelduck (Tadorna radiah ) and 0.0.4
Redbellied hornbills (Tockus ervthrorhvnchus) . Submitted by Carolyn Kennedy, Audubon
Zoo, New Orleans, LA.

Over the past six months the following B&H have occured at the Santa Ana Zoo (CA): 1.1
Celebes crested macaque, 2 Common Rheas (first for our Zoo), 1.0 Barbary macaque, 1.0
Ringtail lemur, 2 Black cap capuchin, 1 .1 Red-handed tamarin, 1.1 Patagonian cavy, 1 .0 African
crested porcupine, 3 Eastern rosellas, and one White-handed gibbon (the mother is 35 years
old). Submitted by Connie Sweet, Asst. Curator, Santa Ana Zoo, Santa Ana, CA.

For the second year in a row, the Metro Toronto Zoo has attained remarkable success in
breeding the Puerto Rican crested toad - a creature so rare that it was thought to be extinct until
1980. In 1986, MTZ was the first zoo in the world to successfully breed these toads naturally; for
this, the Zoo received the Canadian Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums' Award for
Outstanding Achievement. As a result of this accomplishment, Bob Johnson, the Zoo's Curator
of Reptiles, was able, as part of a cooperative breeding project between the Metro Toronto Zoo,
the Buffalo Zoo, and the Puerto Rican Dept, of Natural Resources, to return 350 of the toads to
Puerto Rico. At this time, he collected more wild toads; it is these wild caught toads which he has
managed to breed again this year. So far this spring, over 2,000 of these severely endangered
toadlets and tadpoles have been shipped to the Buffalo Zoo for eventual release in Puerto Rico.
However, 100 have been kept behind here for distribution to other zoos who wish to start their
own breeding programs, and for the continuation of MTZ's own program. Metro Toronto Zoo
News Release.

231

BIRTHS & HATCHINGS. Continued

A research team at the National Zoological Park in Washington, DC has produced the world's first
test-tube kittens. Drs. David Wildt and Mitchell Bush and graduate students Karen Goodrowe
and JoGayle Howard spent two years conducting research before successfully producing three
litters of domestic short-hair kittens using in vitro fertilization, a procedure similar to that used
with humans. While the ordinary house cat is far from the endangered species list, this
successful project could lead to techniques that will enable zoos to breed rare species of wild
cats that do not reproduce well in captivity. Many exotic cats will not accept introduced mates-in
some instances aggression and injuries have resulted. As this technique evolves and is refined,
the long-term survival of captive exotic cats will be much brighter.

The National Zoo is also participating in a major effort to save one of North America's most
endangered species, the black-footed ferret. In an attempt to save the species, Wyoming game
officials removed the last 18 remaining wild ferrets from their natural plains habitat near
Meeteese, WY, and are trying to breed them in captivity. Recently, two breakthroughs in this
conservation effort have occurred. Several months ago at the request of the Wyoming Fish and
Game Dept, NZP researchers and veterinarians began investigating the feasibility of using
artificial insemination (Al) to improve ferret reproduction. On 27 January, after a few short months
of study on a related species, the European ferret, two females that underwent the Al procedure
gave birth to normal litters. David Wildt, NZP reproductive physiologist, said he hopes "to be
able to adapt the procedure to black-footed ferrets by next year’s breeding season." This
success is an important breakthrough because the black-footed ferrets do not breed easily in
captivity and artificial insemination may become an important backup if the animals continue to
have problems. In the second advance, the Sybille Institute (where the remaining black-footed
ferrets are housed) reports that a litter of six babies was born in early June. They should have a
good chance of survival, having survived the critical first 48 hours. This is particularly good news
since none of the ferrets bred in 1986. from TIGERTALK. June 1987, National Zoo.

At the San Diego Wild Animal Park, the birth of their 33rd giraffe (Giraffa & rothchildi ) occurred in
May with the arrival of "Kiume", the offspring of "Blackjack" and "Kito". Kiume means "male".
Some impressive birth records so far this year include seven Siberian ibex (Capra ibex sibirica) .
eight Siberian fox ( Siaga t. tatarica ) . 17 Turkoman markhors ( Capra falconeri heotnen ) [this
species usually bears triplets but one female produced quadruplets], 18 Nubian ibex (Capra L
nubiana) . and 18 Armenian mouflon (Ovis orientalis gmelini) . Meanwhile, at the San Diego
Zoo, a Bolivian gray titi (Callicebus moloch donacophilus) gave birth on 4 May. This is the
fourth consecutive birth for this pair, the fifth birth for the Zoo. Houston and Chicago have also
had births. As of June 1986, only six institutions exhibited these animals and only 26 individuals
were in captivcity. from THE KEEPER, the newsletter of the San Diego AAZK Chapter.

NEWS FLASH FROM SDWAP - the world population of endangered black rhinoceros
increased by one on 12 July with the birth of a male at the San Diego Wild Animal Park. Keepers
named the rhino Mashaki which means "trouble" in Swahili and reflects the youngster's feisty
behavior. Mashaki is only the second black rhino born at the Park; the first was his mother,
Nanyuki, who was born there in October of 1976. The calf's father is Mwaniki, a seven-year-old
rhino on breeding loan from the Cincinnati Zoo. Mashaki was born after a gestation of
approximately 460 days. There are currently 65 black rhinos in 21 U.S. zoos. Their population
in the wild is estimated at 4,000, down from over 60,000 in 1970. from SDWAP News Release.

The Greater San Francisco Bay Area AAZK Chapter reports the following B&H from its member
zoos: Jane Tollini of the San Francisco Zoo reported the birth of 0.0.1 Nile hippo, born on 12
July, the 12th offspring of that facility's prolific hippo couple. Jane also noted the birth of 0.2
Snow leopards and the unfortunate stillbirth of a 0.1 lowland gorilla. This season, 17 Magellanic
penguin chicks are being raised at San Francisco. Susan Wier of the Micke Grove Zoo (Lodi, CA)
reported the birth of 2.0 Snow leopards. From Marine World Africa USA, Mike Owyang has
reported the most recent addition to the Land Mammal Dept, was a 0.1 Scimitar-horned oryx born
on 7 July. A second Scimitar-horned oryax birth was expected in late July. This will be the fourth
birth of this endangered species at that facility. - from Chapter Newsletter

232

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Watch this space for what's new for zoos!

Pronghorn Hand-Rearing Protocol

(Antilocapra americana americana)

By

Kim Brinkley, Animal Keeper
Los Angeles Zoo, Los Angeles, CA

Introduction:

The Los Angeles Zoo has been hand-rearing all pronghorn fawns on a regular, and increasingly
successful basis since 1982. The original protocol we followed was set down for us by Floyd
Blunt, former Director of the Sybille Game and Fish Research Unit in Wheatland, WY. Over
the years we have made modifications to the original protocol as our needs and experience
demanded.

Time for Removal from Dam:

Fawns are taken from their mothers at 24 to 36 hours of age. By leaving them with the dam
for this period of time, they will have had the opportunity to nurse and obtain from their
mother the vital, antibody-rich colostrum. If left at their mother's side even 24 hours longer,
the fawns are more nervous and excitable, and don’t seem to calm down as readily as the fawns
taken at an earlier age.

Housing:

Fawns should be housed in a barn that is lighted, well ventilated, and free from any
protruding objects. During the first two weeks of life, they should be kept individually
isolated in "mini-stalls" within the barn. These "mini-stalls" are made from securely
fastened, but easily removed, plywood boards and/or bales of shavings. The size of each
"mini-stall" is approximately 42 inches deep x 36 inches high x 32 inches wide. Bales of
shavings make good "doors" for these stalls as they can be easily moved, used as a table, are
convenient to sit on, and can be placed one upon another when additional height is needed.

The fawns are bedded on pine shavings 4 to 6 inches in depth. Shavings can be covered with
an additional light bedding of hay or straw for the first week to prevent any accidental
ingestion of shavings.

My experience has shown that by keeping the fawns individually isolated for the first two
weeks, they tend to imprint upon their keeper more than each other, which makes them
calmer, more tractable animals later on. This early isolation has also totally eliminated the
ear-sucking problems than can occur when fawns are housed together at too young an age.

After the first two weeks of isolation, fawns are housed in pairs and their stall slightly
enlarged. Slowly, over the next few days, they can be housed together in larger groups and
their stall space gradually enlarged. As the stall gets larger and space permits, bales of
shavings can be randomly placed as sight barriers for use by the more timid fawns. Because
fawns can frighten so easily and their flight reflex is so unpredictable, I do not recommend the
use of browse plants as sight barriers due to the possibility of eye injuries.

Withour fail, the fawns' stall(s) should be cleaned daily.

Vaccinations:

All fawns are given a medical examination, vaccinations, ear-notched for identification, and
any other needed treatment at the time they are removed from the dam. The vet examines
the palate, heart, lungs, ear notches the fawn, and dips the umbilicus in Betadine® or
Propodyne® Solution.

234

Pronghorn Hand-Rearing Protocol. Continued

The following vaccinations are administered:

-Genecol® (orally) for E . coli - This must be given within first 24 hours of life to be

thoroughly effective!

-Calf-Guard® (orally) for rota /corona virus
-Fermicon-7® (SQ) for Clostridia
-Killed BVD vaccine (SQ)

-Imrab® (killed rabies vaccine) - IM
-Killed tetanus toxoid (IM)

-200 IU Vit. E plus Vit. E/Selenium (IM)

-Prophylactic penicillin (SQ)

Our vets highly recommend that all fawns be re-vaccinated with teatnus toxoid and Fermicon-
7® at 10 weeks of age.

Feeding Equipment:

We use 8-ounce size plastic Even-Flo® baby bottles and very soft Even-Flo Preemie® nipples.
The hole in the nipple should be enlarged, with a hot needle, to about the size of a pin head.

As fawns grow older and their sucking reflex becomes stronger, they begin to collapse the
Preemie nipple while feeding. At this time, we switch to a regular Even-Flo® nipple (hole
enlarged to pin-head size) - the kind that comes with the bottle when purchased.

Following each feeding, bottles and nipples are thoroughly washed in hot water and dish-
washing liquid with the aid of a bottle brush. They are then disinfected by immersing them
in a dilute chlorine bath, made up of 1 /4 cup swimming pool chlorine to 2 gallons warm water,
for no less than 5 minutes. After soaking in the chlorine bath, the feeding equipment is
thoroughly rinsed, several times, under running water and allowed to air in a dish drainer
before reusing.

Introduction to the Bottle:

Fawns will usually not readily accept a bottle, and must be patiently taught and encouraged to
drink from one. Until the fawn learns to recognize and willingly comes to the bottle, the
keeper should approach slowly and calmly, talking in a low and soothing manner.

Try to firmly, but without force, restrain the fawn in a sternal position between your knees,
while you are sitting or kneeling. The nipple is then placed in the fawn's mouth, and very
gently and slowly squeezed to allow a few drops into the mouth. If the fawn is doing a lot of
struggling, take several brief rests. It is best to quit after about 20 minutes, even though the
fawn may not have taken anything. To continue on any longer only succeeds in exhausting and
stressing both the fawn and the keeper. Fawns will usually catch on to the idea of nursing
from a bottle after a few feedings, and even the slower ones learn within about 3 days.

Formula and Supplements:

The formula is: 32 ounces (1 quart) fresh, whole, pasteurized cow's milk mixed with 12 ounces
(1 tall can) undiluted, evaporated (not condensed) cow's milk. Formula must be kept
refrigerated and unused formula should be discarded after 72 hours.

Starting with the first feeding of straight formula, 1 ounce (30cc) of cultured buttermilk is used
to replace 1 ounce (30cc) of formula once daily. Also, 2cc ABDEC or Hi-Vite® liquid vitamins
are added to the bottle once daily. I put the buttermilk and the vitamins in the AM bottle.

As the fawns start to eat solids, granulated trace mineral salt, calcium carbonate and Vit. E
powder are sprinkled on the hay/grain - consult your vet for dosages. Fawns should have
access to salt blocks at all times. We offer 3 types: plain table salt, trace mineral, and 3%
sulphur.

235

Pronghorn Hand-Rearing Protocol. Continued

Feeding:

All bottles should be warmed, prior to feeding, to approximate body temperature. To begin
with, we feed 4 times daily, starting at 7:30 a.m. and finishing at 10:00 p.m.

For the first feeding attempt, we offer 30cc of boiled distilled water instead of milk. At this
time we can evaluate the fawn's sucking/swallowing reflex and its general response to
handling without the risk of aspiration of milk into the lungs.

During the following 72 hours, 60cc of pasturized cow's colostrum is offered at each feeding, 4
feedings daily. 70cc pasteurized cow's colostrum 1:1 with formula (1/2 colostrum. 1/2 formula)
is offered at each feeding, 4 feedings daily, for the next 72 hours.

After 144 hours, 80cc of formula is offered per feeding, 4 feedings daily.

Formula increases continue to be given at 72 hour intervals. Increases are in lOcc increments
(i.e. increase from 80cc to 90cc per feeding, then 72 hours later, increase from 90-cc to lOOcc per
feeding), until the fawn has reached 200cc per feeding. At this time, the fawn can be
increased 20cc per feeding, but still at 72 hour intervals, until a maximum of 240cc (8 ounces)
per feeding, still 4 feedings daily, has been reached.

At about 60 days of age, one formula feeding may be dropped. However, if you have fawns of
different ages, it may be preferable to substitute 240cc of warm water for the formula instead
of dropping that feeding. Once all fawns are receiving water at that feeding, the feeding can
be totally discontinued.

Formula feedings are eliminated, as above, about every 2-3 weeks until the fawn is completely
weaned at 4-4 1/2 months of age. If desired, 240cc of warm water may be offered once daily to
help keep the fawns more tractable.

1 prefer to discontinue feedings in the following order: mid-day feeding, night feeding, late
afternoon feeding, AM feeding.

Alfalfa hay is offered along with Carnation Calf Mana® (1/4 cup daily per fawn) starting at

2 weeks of age. Equal amounts of red wheat bran, Purina Goat Chow® and O.H. Kruse
herbivore pellets are offered after 1 month, increasing to 1/2 cup of each item daily per fawn
at weaning age. At 1 month of age, fresh acacia browse is offered on a daily basis. Starting at
2 weeks of age, a shallow tub of fresh water should be available at all times.

Sanitation and Stimulation:

Following each feeding, the facial and anal areas of each fawn should be gently bathed with
warm water soaked paper towels. Use separate containers of water and separate towels for
each area.

Fawns are usually able to urinate on their own right away, but must be stimulated to defecate
for, at least, the first 2-3 weeks. The anal area and under the tail should be gently stimulated
with paper towels soaked in warm water. If the anal region becomes irritated, a little K-Y
Jelly® or mineral oil can be used when stimulation is needed. Once the fawns begin defecating
on their own, stimulation can be slowly decreased and usually totally discontinued by about 4
weeks of age.

Venturing Outdoors:

Generally at the age of 1 month, fawns will come to the keeper on call. At this time they are
allowed to go outside into a small enclosed pen. They are closely monitored during this initial
outdoor experience. Fawns have access to their stalls at all times and are locked indoors at
the end of the work day. While outside, they have access, through a chain link fence
"decorated" with PVC sight barriers, to the adult pronghorn herd, which helps to begin the
introduction phase.

236

Pronghorn Hand-Rearing Protocol. Continued

Access is given to the adult herd and the exhibit when fawns are about 5 1/2 months old. Since
they have been "visiting" with the adults through the fence for some months, actual
introduction has never been any problem. However, since the exhibit area is unfamiliar to
them, fawns should be watched closely while on exhibit for the first time. Fortunately, we
have never had any major problems in this area either.

Closing Thoughts:

Pronghorn antelope are an extremely difficult species to manage in captivity, however our
hand-rearing efforts have made the overall management of our herd quite successful. The
hand-rearing of fawns is an extremely time consuming, sometimes heart breaking, but overall
very rewarding experience.

I strongly feel that it is very important to maintain keeper consistency, rather than allowing
a lot of different people to work with the fawns. The fawns I have raised have become-
accustomed to volunteers working with me and have become well adjusted to the noises and
hustle-bustle of the work day. They all respond well to touch and affection and grow up to be
tame, friendly, tractable adults. We have never found that hand-rearing has had an adverse
affect on breeding in our pronghorn herd.

Addendum: Drugs Used in Vaccination:

-Genecol-99®; Escherichia coli monoclonal antibody (Molecular Genetics, Inc.;
Minnetonka, MN 55343); orally.

-Calf-Guard®; bovine rota/coronavirus vaccine (Norden Labs., Inc.; Lincoln, NE
68501); orally.

-Fermicon-7®; Clostridium chauvoei- septicum- novyi- sordelli - perfringens Types
C&D bactrin- toxoid (Bio-Ceutic Div.- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Inc.,

St. Joseph, MO 64502); subcutaneously.

-Bovine Virus Diarrhea Triangle-1 (Fort Dodge Labs, Inc., Fort Dodge, IA 50501);
subcutaneously.

-Imrab® rabies vaccine killed virus (Merieux Labs, Inc., Athens, GA 30601-
distributed by Pittman-Moore, Inc.; Washington Crossing, NJ 08560); intramuscularly.
-Tetanus Toxoid Adsorbed (Sclavo, Inc.; Wayne, NJ 07470); intramuscularly.
-DEPO-Penicillin (Upjohn Co., Kalamazoo, MI 49001); subcutaneously.

-dl-alpha tocopherol acetate injection (Western Medical Supply, Inc.; Arcadia, CA
91006); Vit. E.; intramuscularly.

-E-SE injection (Bums Biotec Lab., Inc.; Omaha, NE 68103); sodium selenite plus
d-alpha tocopherol acetate: Vit. E/Selenium; intramuscularly.

237

Nutrasweet Fundraiser

By

Ed Hansen Tucson AAZK Chapter
Tucson, A Z

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 pursues every fundraising opportunity
available., to make the 14th National Conference a success. Remember that line from a
previous article - well, I have another saga for you.

At a regularly scheduled meeting, eons ago, after 1 or 6 beers, George casually mentioned to
the membership that his place of employ, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, made
available aluminum cans for recycling to non-profit organizations such as ours. All we had to
do was sort the cans, haul them away, and collect the money. Sure we said (no single
individual is going to take the fall for this one)~no problem. That was the last we ever
heard about it until I received a phone message to give George or Kerry a call. I should know
better by now. "ASDM has a bunch of cans that need to be sorted, now, or they are going to be
given to the Boy Scouts," says George. "Okay, I’ll recruit and we'll be out." "Bring beer,
gloves, and a positive attitude," says George. Oh-oh.

Recruited Reid Park Zoo staff fortified themselves with brew in the parking lot and then
started away on the 30-minute trek over the mountain to ASDM, only to confront another
mountain - a mountain made by the Man from Glad, gone beserk.

Seven dedicated (or dense) Chapter members confronted this plastic demon and the first thing
that struck the Reid Zoo members was the smell. "How long has this pile been here?" Gale
asked. "Six months, give or take a year," replies Karen. Oh-oh.

George and I devised an intricate strategy in sorting the cans away from the garbage (yes,
garbage - i.e. litter pickers, rakes, etc...) Rusty chugged a beer and waded in with bare hands
and started filling the air with aluminum. It seemed to be working, so we paired off, 2 dump
cans, 2 sort cans, 2 tie bags, Kerry rakes leftovers. All went well for the first 20-30 seconds,
until Sara unearthed the first used diaper. Those of you who have ever thrown a zoo party
and want to get rid of the last 5 or 6 diehards at 3 a.m., pull out a used #2 diaper that has been
incubating in the heat for 6 months, and toss it in the center of the room. I can guarantee an
explosion of movement.

After a five-minute regroup, pep talk (spiced with gagging noises) and more importantly
another beer, back we went. Diapers became a welcome sight after plowing through a river of
syrup and cigarette butts. (Why do people pay .75 cents for a soda, drink two ounces, then
throw the rest away?) Trash mountain slowly was replaced by Mt. Aluminum - progress until
we hit the first scorpions, more explosive movement. (Funny how keepers who work with
Black Bears and Elephants all day would be upset by teeny scorpions crawling across their
hands and up their pant legs.)

After two hours and two hundred thousand cans, darkness prevailed. We looked like coal
miners, and every moveable body part was stuck together from syrup. One third of the
original trash heap remained virgin territory. Karen had forseen a dark future and departed.
Kerry and George said "Enough" - beaten by the aluminum monster, or common sense. Gale and
Rusty voiced for continuing, or going out for a beer, whatever. Sara, whose demeanor
alternates freely from between sublime and sadistic announced (and I edit) "Urinate on the
Boy Scouts, I'm not leaving one damn can." So in the lights of two pick-up trucks, under a Carl
Sagan sky, we spasmodically sorted the remaining aluminum, for the good of the Chapter.

So when you attend the 14th National AAZK Conference in Tucson, 1988, please don't be
surprised to find every beverage served to you in a glass or plastic cup. Aluminum now causes
us to run screaming from the room. See you in Milwaukee.

238

Captive Reproduction of the Bermuda
Rock Lizard or Skink

(Eumeces longirostris)

By

John A. Barnes
and

Frances Edy

Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo
Flatts, Bermuda

The Bermuda rock lizard or "skink" ( Eumeces lon girostris) , is the only non-mammalian
terrestrial vertebrate to reach the biologically isolated island of Bermuda (Wingate, 1965a).
It is the only endemic species of herpetofauna on these islands and was, by all accounts,
reasonably abundant. Since man’s colonization of the Bermuda Islands there has been a
marked, although undetermined, decrease in the number of skinks; partially through habitat
destruction and also as a result of predation by domestic animals including dogs and cats
(Wingate, 1965b).

The species remains spread over most of mainland Bermuda in small numbers, but is most
populous on the islands of Castle Harbour which are considered nature preserves (See Fig. 1)

lon girostris is a ground lizard about 150-175 mm in length. Adults are blackish or grayish
in color while juveniles are striped with brilliant blue tails. There appears to be little sexual
dimorphism among adult specimens.

239

Captive Reproduction of the Bermuda Rock Lizard. Cont'd.

In January, 1983, two unsexed adult skinks were taken from Nonsuch Island, Castle Harbour
and placed on public display in a terrarium at the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo.

The terrarium dimensions were 91.4 (1) x 45.7 (w) x 61.0 (h) cm and the substrate depicted was
that of a coastal area above the splash zone. This consisted of sandy soil and the vegetation
included buttonwood ( Conocarpus erect us ) , baygrape ( Coccolobis uvifera ) and sea ox-eye
( Borrichia arborescens) as predominant features. Lighting was provided by an automatic
timer (7 a.m. to 7 p.m.) connected to a 40-watt Vita-Lite® double cathode fluorescent tube
above the tank. The temperature was maintained at 21.1 degrees C. Food was varied and
consisted of live mealworms, dog food, soft fruits and bread crumbs. A multivitamin
supplement (Poly-Vi-Sol®) was given at the rate of one or two drops per week in drinking
water.

In January, 1984, a third adult skink was added; and in June, 1984, two more adults were
added. These were all of undetermined sex.

During routine cleaning, on 13 August, 1984, a juvenile was discovered and, on 20 August,
further excavation revealed two more juveniles. It was thought likely that the juveniles were
offspring of a recently added adult which had been gravid prior to introduction to the
terrarium.

During the 1985 summer season (July- August) seven skinks were bom in captivity. These were
believed to have been conceived in captivity as no mature skinks had been added to the colony
since June of 1984.

In July, 1986, a nest consisting of five eggs was discovered under a rock. Shortly thereafter at
least one juvenile was seen.

While mating behavior has not been observed it would appear that nesting sites tend to be in
hollow areas and that the adults are capable of burying eggs. It was not established whether
longirostris adults actively tend the eggs as do the females of other Eumeces species
(Ashton and Ashton, 1985).

The breeding cycle which may be inferred from these findings is not inconsistent with that
reported for similar species from the southeastern United States (Behler and King, 1979).

L it er ature Cited

Ashton, R.E., Jr., and P.S. Ashton. 1985. Handbook of Reptiles and Amphibians of Horida,

Part Two: Lizards, Turtles and Crocodilians. Windward Publishing Co., Miami,
Florida, U.S.A.

Behler, J. L. and F.W. King. 1979. The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American
Reptiles and Amphibians. Alfred A. Knopf, Inc., New York, NY, U.S.A.

Wingate, D.B. 1965a. Reptiles of Bermuda. Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
Orientation Course in Bermuda Natural History for School Teachers,

Paget, Bermuda.

Wingate, D.B. 1965b. Terrestrial Herpetofauna of Bermuda. Herpetologica 21:202-218.

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to express their gratitude to Susan Gardner for assistance in the
preparation of this manuscript.

240

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION

OF ZOOKEEPERS
MILWAUKEE 1987

Conference Registration Deadline

Please note that the deadline for pre-registration for Conference *87 is 15
August, 1987. Registrations received after this date must include a $10.00 late
fee. One day rates are available by contacting Steven M. Wing for details.

Dining in Milwaukee

For your convenience, a dining guide has been put together just for the
delegates to the 1987 AAZK National Conference. This list includes over
thirty restaurants within an eight block radius of the Sheraton Mayfair Inn.
The list will include menus, hours and prices and will be included in your
conference registration packet.

Going.. .Going.. .Gone

Auction ’87 will again be split into two evenings. Wednesday evening will
feature the Silent Auction . This will be an informal activity with all the
items being displayed, each with its own bid card. This will give each
participant the opportunity to clearly view each item. Bidders will write
down their names along with the amount bid. You will be able to make as
many bids as you want, thus allowing competitive bidding. Bidding will
close at 8 p.m. and the winners announced immediately. The Voice Auction
will again be held Thursday evening following the banquet. Spirited bidding
for treasured memories will be followed by music and dancing. It will prove
to be a fun-filled evening.

Exhibitor Space Requirements

To all Chapters, exhibitors and Committee Chairpersons: Please let us know
your space requirements for the exhibitors area. We need to know how
many tables to set aside. Space will be reserved for all Chapter projects and
for any committees that wish to set up a display. This service will be
provided at no cost. Send requirements to: Conference f 87, Milwaukee
County Zoo, 10001 West Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53226.

1987 AAZK NATIONAL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM

OCTOBER 4-8, 1987
Milwaukee , WI

Please type of print. (One name per form)

Name

Address

City

Zip Code

Zoo Affiliation__

Area of Interest.

AAZK Committee Member?

Will be submitting a paper: Yes N o

($20.00 will be refunded from registration fee on acceptance of paper.)

Participating in Zoolympics: Yes No

Bringing auction item: Yes No Describe briefly

State/Province

Telephone # ( I

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 State/Province

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 roor ate: 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.

Re turn this form to;

Conference '87
Milwakuee County Zoo
10001 W. Bluemound Road
Milwaukee, WI 53226

Zoolympics

Zoolympics has become a special event where we can all relax, let off a little
steam and join in the fun. Well at AAZK 1987 in Milwaukee, we are going
to continue the tradition and maybe even add to it.

We have been planning some special contests, some of you may have seen at
past conferences and some will be brand new. We have some special
surprises for those skilled enough or lucky enough to be a winner.

So sharpen up those zookeeping skills. Practice! Practice! Practice! And join
in the Milwaukee Zoolympics!

f — — —x

Crossword Clues for Aug ust

Across:

2. Over . restaurants are within an eight block radius of the

Conference hotel.

12. Place where conference memories are bought by bidding.

Down:

15. August 15, 1987 is the

ior pre-registration.

Tentative Program for Conference ’87

Saturday, 3 October

Board of Directors Meeting (Closed Session)

Sunday, 4 October

Board of Directors Meeting, Registration
Pre-conference Tour, Icebreaker

Tuesday, 6 October

Monday, 5 October

Paper Presentations, AAZK Birthday Party

Milwaukee County Zoo Tour, Workshop,
Zoolympics, Silent Auction

Wednesday, 7 October Museum, Conservatory, Brewery Tours

Thursday, 8 October Paper Presentations, Keynote Speaker, AAZK

Awards, General Membership Meeting, Banquet/
Auction/Dancing

An expanded program will appear in a later issue of the Forum

Conference *87 Official Airline

Northwest Orient has been named the official airline of the 1987
Conference. By calling the toll-free number below and identifying yourself
with the code #12380 the delegates will be granted a 5% discount off the
lowest available roundtrip fair for which the passenger qualifies; or a 35%
discount from the regular roundtrip coach fair. For Canadian attendees a
25% discount from the roundtrip adult coach class will be honored.

Northwest has agreed to allow the discount to apply to arrival and/or
departure from either Milwaukee or Chicago to allow convenience to those
delegates who are interested in the post-conference tours in Chicago.

PHONE NUMBERS FOR BOOKING: 1-800-328-1111

1-800-272-1408 in Minnesota
1-800-328-7747 in Canada

Identification code: 12380

Hope to see YOU in Milwaukee!

Pick-up Service at the Milwaukee Airport

For your convenience, a bus will provide pick-up service at the Milwaukee
Airport. Designers of Travel will be leaving the airport at regular hourly
intervals. Departure times are as follows: 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m., 2
p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. This service will be offered on Saturday, 3
Oct. and again on Sunday, 4 Oct.

A $2.50 charge will be collected when you board the bus. The bus will leave
the terminal from outside the baggage claim area. If you need pick-up
assistance other than at these times, please let the conference committee
know ASAP.

Pre-Conference Trip Information

Due to popular demand, a pre-conference trip will be offered to the Vilas
Park Zoo in Madison and to the International Crane Foundation in Baraboo,
WI. The one-day trip will begin at approximately 7 a.m. on Sunday, 4 Oct.
Delegates will tour both facilities and return in time for dinner and the
Icebreaker that evening.

The Vilas Park Zoo features many new exhibits including a pachyderm
building, giraffe building, bear exhibits, and otter and seal displays. The
Wisconsin Regional Primate Research Center is located right on the zoo
grounds.

241

Pre-Conference Trip Information. Continued

The International Crane Foundation has moved to its new location and has
added a prairie walk to the crane and chick-rearing displays. 13-15 crane
species are kept here including the rare Black-neck crane from central Asia.

The fee for the trip is $10.00 and includes transportation and admissions.
Please fill out and send in the form below if you are interested in this trip.

Pre-Conference Trip Form

Name — -

Address ■ ■ ■

Fee enclosed ft

Send form to: Conference ’87

Milwaukee County Zoo
10001 W. Bluemound Rd.
Milwaukee, WI 53226

Post-Conference Trip Update

Cost of the post-conference trip to Chicago will be $10.00 to cover
transportation fees. Lincoln Park will host lunch at LPZ on 9 Oct.; The John
C. Shedd Aquarium will host a reception on 9 Oct..; and Brookfield awll host
a lunch for attendees on 10 October.

Busses will arrive at LPZ on 9 Oct. at about 10 a.m., delegates will be
welcomed, toured, fed lunch and then continue to the aquarium for tours
and a reception. The evening will be free so delegates may explore Chicago’s
restaurants and entertainment spots. (Some of our Keepers are diligently
researching what is available on the music scene.) Saturday, 10 Oct., will be
Brookfield Zoo day with lunch provided. Busses will return to Milwaukee
that evening. Arrangements can be made to get those who can make flights
out of Chicago to either O'Hare or Midway Airports.

Each delegate must make his/her own hotel reservations. The Inn in
Chicago has given us an excellent rate, especially considering that it is in the
heart of downtown, across the street from the Museum of Contemporary Art,
and within a short walk of fine restaurants and shops. Keeper
Accommodation are also available through Dominique Galiano , hoofstock
keeper at LPZ.

DON'T FORGET — If you are interested in the post-conference trip to see
Lincoln Park and Brookfield Zoo in Chicago, send in your interest form to
Pat Sammarco at Lincoln Park, 2200 N. Cannon Dr., Chicago, IL 60614.
Copies of the form may be found in the May issue of AKF (p. 147), June
AKF (tan insert), and July AKF (p. 209).

242

CHAPTER

NEWS

Audubon Zoo AAZK Chapter

The Audubon Zoo Chapter (New
Orleans, LA) has elected the following
officers:

President Mark Ellerman

Vice Pres Andy Snieder

Secretary Carolyn Kennedy

Treasurer Dee Nelson

The Chapter's latest project is to
renovate two flight cages for the zoo's
Wild Bird Rehab Center.

Central Arizpna AAZK Chapter

Arizona has a new Chapter. After
several monthly meetings addressing
purpose, future, projects and the
formation of a constitution and a set of
by-laws, a dozen individuals have
revived a long dormant Chapter in the
Phoenix area. We consist of eight
keepers, an administrator, a primate
researcher, a zoo volunteer and a
veterinary technician.

We represent the Phoenix Zoo, Wildlife
World Zoo, Primate Foundation and a
Veterinary clinic recognized for their
efforts in wildlife and raptor
rehabilitation. Our membership is
open to anyone interested in wildlife,
free living or captive.

Our first project will be designing
public awareness posters on local
conservation problems and issues that
will rotate between the two zoological
institutions. We look forward to joint
gatherings and projects with the
Tucson AAZK Chapter.

In May we had our first election and
our officers are as follows:

President..... Mike Seidman
Vice Pres..... Rusty Harr
Secretary..... Jeanne Grossmayer

Treasurer Tracy Fleshman

Officer-at-large Marge McHugh

Chapter Liaison Luke Thirkill

—Luke Thirkill

Portland AAZK Chapter

Newly elected officers of the Portland
AAZK are:

President Michael Illig

Vice Pres Bret Sellers

Secretary Jan McCoy

Treasurer..... Anna Michel
Corres. Secy/

Chapter Liaison Blayne Barclay

Our Chapter has had a very busy and
productive year. We invested in our
own canning machine and have been
canning our little hearts out to keep up
with the demand for ZooDoo ®. The
money has been used to send seven
people to various conferences and
workshops and to support research
projects at out zoo involving elephants,
penguins, and felids with $1200 from
our research fund. We are also working
with Sharon Matola from the Belize
Zoo to help in publishing a children's
book about conservation to be
distributed in that country. We are
proud to have helped launch the Zoo
Focus 86-87 Lecture Series along with
the Washington Park Zoo Guides and
the Friends of the Zoo. This series,
through the efforts of keeper Cynthia
Cheney has brought lectures to our
community on a variety of topics from
whales, to elephants, to gorillas. We
recently started selling T-shirts with
our ZooDoo ® label logo specifically to
fund the purchase of a computer for
keeper and AAZK member use. Within
a year we have realized our goal and
have just acquired a computer and
continue to raise money to use for
software.

OssaiSL Kansas city aazk chapter

Newly elected officers for the Greater
Kansas City AAZK Chapter are:

President Chuck Kirchner

Vice Pres Cheree Kobak

Treasurer/ Keeper Exchange Contact

Person Karrie Wiley

Secretary..... Shirley Williams
Chapter Liaison..... Dale Frerking
KAL Contact Person..... Dee Wolfe

243

Book Review

Ni m- A gJ10 m p0nzee-Wh.Q-leMmd. S ign . Lan g ua g e.

By Herbert S. Terrace
Columbia University Press, 1986
New York, NY
303 pps. Paperback $12.50

Review By Susan Margulis
Burnet Park Zoo
Syracuse, NY

Nim is a detailed account of a four-year experiment to teach American Sign Language to an
infant chimpanzee. The book is quite readable and would be appropriate for anyone
interested in chimp behavior and intelligence. While problems are evident in the study
design. Dr. Terrace's conclusion -- that the linguistic abilities of non-human primates have
been over-estimated — gives one much to think about.

A professor of psychology at Columbia University, Dr. Terrace was offered an infant
chimpanzee from the Institute for Primate Studies in Oklahoma. With little preparation
and almost no funding. Dr. Terrace took the chimp— named "Nim Chimpsky"-and began a
four-year project to teach Nim sign language. Nim’s first nine months were spent in a family
setting. The socialization of Nim, in order to make him a "well-behaved" chimp in human
society, often seemed to overshadow the sign language training. Nim wore clothes, used a
toilet, helped with the cooking and cleaning in his home (spaghetti was a typical dinner),
and slept in a bed.

Four years and 60+ teachers after his arrival in New York, Nim had learned 125 signs. The
constant loss of teachers caused great emotional stress for Nim, and clearly hindered his
linguistic development. Lack of funding forced Terrace to end Project Nim in 1977. Nim
returned to the Institute where he slowly recovered from the traumatic separation from his
human caretakers and learned to accept the company of other chimpanzees.

Dr. Terrace's analysis of Nim's utterances revealed that Nim's linguistic abilities were less
than they had appeared to be. His signs were often repetitive of his teachers’ and the length
of his sentences did not increase as would a child's. Terrace clearly feels that chimps have
the potential to learn sign language. He believes that "it would be worthwhile to attempt to
teach sign language to not one but a number of chimpanzees under conditions more ideal than
those that Nim experienced."

The subject of language-learning in non-human primates is a fascinating one, and Dr. Terrace’s
account of his years with Nim is both enjoyable and informative. Yet a more appropriate
title for the book might be: Nim: A Ch i m p a n ze e Who. Was T.mghLt o M h.ave Like a Human*
and A fg g L ea me d a l ittl e S i gn la ng uag e l

244

A Survey of Intestinal Parasites in Wild, Ex-Captive and
Captive Orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus ) : An American
Association of Zoo Keepers Research Project

Part One

By

Harmony Frazier -Taylor
Senior Veterinary Technician
Woodland Park Zoological Gardens
Seattle , WA

Birute Galdikas, Ph. D.
Primatologist and Founder
Orangutan Conservation and Research Station
Tanjung Puting Reserve
Kalimantan, Indonesia

William B. Karesh, DVM
Veterinarian

Woodland Park Zoological Gardens
Seattle, WA

Introduction

During October and November of 1984, a research project was undertaken in which a field
laboratory was established and fecal specimens from ex-captive and wild orangutans
(Pongo pygmaeus) were examined by three different methods. Fecal flotation,
Baermann filter, and filter hatching methods were used to screen samples for parasites
as well as hatch ova for positive identification.

In addition to the laboratory and fecal analysis, tracking of orangutans, behavioral data
collection, treatment of injured orangutans and re-introduction of an ex-captive were all
participated in.

Study Site

Borneo is the third largest island in the world. It is the largest island in the Indonesian
chain which consists of more than 13,600 islands. The uppermost part of Borneo is
governed by Malayasia and Brunei, the larger portion is held by Indonesia and is called
Kalimantan or Indonesian Borneo. Indonesian Borneo is approximately the size of
France. Although orangutans once ranged over vast areas of Southeast Asia and even
parts of China, they are now isolated in small pockets on Borneo and the adjacent island
of Sumatra.

Camp Leakey was established in 1971 by Dr. Birute Galdikas as a field research station.
It is located in the Tanjung Puting Reserve in coastal south central Borneo (Kalimantan
Tengah). Currently 1.57% of Borneo is conserved in national parks or reserves. The
study area is only 0.4% of this area consisting of dry ground dipterocarp forest, peat
swamp forest, tropical heath forest, abandoned dry rice fields, young secondary forest and
shallow lakes.

Indonesia has 650 mammal species, 1400 bird species, 603 reptile species, and 4,000 fish
species. Nine species of primates live within the Tangjung Puting Reserve.

245

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

During October/November the weather ranged from 80 degrees F (26 degrees C) to 95
degrees F (35 degrees C) with the humidity staying within the same numerical range.
Annual rainfall in this area is 100-200 inches with an average of 120 inches during the
monsoon season. Our samples were collected just prior to and during the monsoon
season.

The ex-captive orangutans numbered approximately ten individuals that moved in and
out of camp. The wild orangutans were located and then followed for three days. There
were from one to three wild individuals located per week.

Matsrials-amLMcth Qd s

Camp assistants spent time daily either searching for orangutans or following previously
found orangutans, collecting data as they went. Once an animal had been spotted, it was
followed until it nested for the night. The next day before dawn and hopefully before the
orangutan moved from its nesting site, the tracking team would return. Often, upon
waking, the orangutan would urinate and defecate before moving from its nesting site.
Samples were irretrievable if the animals awoke before daylight or if they had nested over
water. When a sample was successfully collected, it was carried for the day until the ’
orangutan nested for the night and the team, returned to camp.

Ex-captive orangutans were easier to locate but often defecated into the swamp near the
river, making their samples irretrievable.

A small wood room at the end of a long house was converted from a herbarium into the
laboratory. It unfortunately did not have electricity so was used only for the set-up of the
flotation and filter hatching systems.

A small, older model microscope was set up in the community dining hall and the
samples were screened for eggs during the evening hours when the generator provided
electricity to this area. Positive samples were set up the next day in a filter hatching
method.

Since initial screening could be accomplished only in the evening, samples returning
from the field at night were not examined until the following evening.

Ovassay® fecal diagnostic kits were used for the flotation examination. The sodium
nitrate solution comes in crystaline form which made it very lightweight for transport.
Boiled water was used to avoid adding contamination to the sodium nitrate when
reconstituting it. Light weight plastic petre dishes and plastic test tubes with filter paper
cut to shape worked for hatching ova.

Since approximately half of the equipment was lost in transit, the Baermann set-up was
accomplished with items found locally. A plastic household funnel was used with a piece
of penrose drain for a funnel extension. Two tongue depressors with rubber bands served
as a clamp, gauze sponges worked as a filter and the whole thing was held by a wild pig
mandible found in the herbarium.

Laboratory Methods

Simple Flotation - The Ovassay® flotation system is a ready to use sodium nitrate
flotation kit. The sodium nitrate causes the parasite eggs to float on the top of the solution
and they are gathered by allowing them to adhere to a coverslip placed on top. The
coverslip is transferred to a glass microscope slide and the specimen is analyzed. Most
parasitology or laboratory procedure books describe details on this system and even how to
prepare your solution.

Baermann Technique (Pratt, P. 1985) - This method is used to recover lungworm larvae
which will migrate down the funnel full of warm water and can be recovered by opening
the spout at the base. The advantage of this method is that specimens that are too heavy to

246

Orangutan Parasite Survey, Continued

float can be retrieved. Again, most parasitology and lab procedure books carry
instructions for this method. As mentioned previously, the apparatus used at camp was
put together with available materials. Although it was quite adequate, it was difficult to
clean and disinfect due to lack of available water (all washing was done at a river some
distance away). There was also the risk of contaminating the soil around the camp while
trying to clean it, so the Baermann method was discontinued. Instead, feces were
preserved and brought back to the U.S. for furher analysis.

Filter Hatching Techniques:

Two techniques were used, Harada-Mori and charcoal, in an attempt to hatch the ova in
the samples.

Harada-Mori (1955) - will be discussed in detail since the method is not readily available
in procedure books. The method was introduced by Harada and Mori in 1955 and has
since been modified by several workers. It is a filter paper strip culture technique. It
should be noted that fecal material to be cultured should not be refrigerated, since some
species are susceptible to cold and will not undergo subsequent development. Caution
must be exercised in handling the filter paper strip itself, since, Strongvloides infective
larvae may migrate upward as well as downward in these cultures.

1. To each 15 ml centrifuge tube, add approximately 3-4 ml distilled water. (Boiled river
water was used in this study)

2. In the center of each filter paper strip (3/4 inch x 5 inches) smear, in a relatively thin
film, approximately 0.5 to 1 gm of feces.

3. Insert the strip into the tube so that the end of the filter paper strip, usually cut so that it is
slightly tapered, is near the bottom of the tube. Caps are not required on the tubes.

4. Maintain the tube upright in a rack at 24-28 degrees C and add water to original level as
it is needed. Usually there is rapid evaporation over the first day or two, and then the
culture becomes stabilized.

5. The capillary flow of water up the filter paper strip keeps the feces moist.

6. Tubes should be kept approximately 10 days, but infective larvae may be found after the
fifth day.

7. By using a glass pipette, a small amount of fluid from the bottom of the tube may be
withdrawn; larvae found will generally be alive and active. They may be heat-killed
within the tube or after removal to the slide; iodine may also be used to kill larvae.

8. Examination of larave for typical morphological features will reveal whether
hookworm, strongyloides, or Trichostrongylus larave are present.

Charcoal Filter Cultures (Beaver, et. al. 1984) - This ova hatching technique was tried for
comparison with the Harada-Mori technique. Using a small plastic petri dish with filter
paper cut round to fit most of the dish, charcoal was crumbled in the center and feces
mixed into it. The paper is again kept moist and the eggs hatch in about five days. The
larvae are easily detected and can be removed directly or by filtering through a
Baermann filter system. (Pieces of charcoal from the fire pit at camp were used and the
method was effective.)

Formalin Preservation (Beaver, et. al. 1984) - Protozoan cysts (not trophozoites), helminth
eggs, and larave are well preserved for long periods of time in 10% aqueous formalin. It
is preferable to use hot (60 degrees C to 140 degrees F) formalin for specimens containing
helminth eggs, since in cold formalin they may continue to develop, become infective and
remain viable for long periods. The larave may also tend to contract in a cold solution
making identification more difficult. Since there was no method for measuring

247

Orangutan Parasi te Survey, Continued

temperature at camp, containers of formalin were allowed to stand in a cup of boiling
water until hot. This proved satisfactory.

Shipping Samples: The samples were placed in 10% formalin in small glass vials with
screw caps, wrapped heavily in gauze, wrapped in plastic and boxed. The samples were
claimed at customs and since there were no specific restrictions on formalin fixed
parasite eggs, (not many people takes feces for souvenirs) the box was allowed through
without opening it,

ftes u Hs ;

Samples were collected from ten individual orangutans. Of these, five were ex-captive
animals and five were free living in the wild. Using the four methods of fecal analysis,
thirty-nine tests were run on these samples, (Table 1:1). All individuals were positive in
at least one test.

Test Method

#Samples

Tested

#Samples

Positive

%Positive

#Negative

Filter Harada-Mori

12

8

66

4

Filter charcoal

10

7

70

3

16 Float

16

10

62.5

6

Baermann

1

0

0

1

TABLE 1:1 The results of stool samples evaluated for intestinal

parasites of wild and ex-captive orangutans in Tanjung
Puting as determined in four different methods of fecal
examination techniques.

Metastrongyles, strongyles, Stronevloides fuelleborni. trichurids and Entamoeba coli
were the parasites found in the Tanjung Puting animals. Table 1:2 lists the incidence of
their occurence.

Wild Orangutans (5) Ex-Captive Orangutans (5)

Metastrongyle

1 (20%)

0 (0%)

Strongyle

1 (20%)

1 (20%)

Strongylpideg fpellehorni

3 (60%)

4 (80%)

Trichurids

1 (20%)

2 (40%)

EntamoeOa w \\

2 (40%)

3 (60%)

TABLE 1:2 Parasites identified in ten individual orangutans living
in Tanjung Puting.

248

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Figure 1:1 shows a nonpathogenic protozoa, Entamoeba coli cysts, which were found in
several samples. These protozoa can indicate that the individual (man or animal) has
been exposed to fecal contamination - a fact not too suprising considering the habits of
apes.

Metastronglye or lungworm larvae is shown in Figure 1:2. This was only found in one
wild adult.

The most common infection was Stronevloides fuelleborni. Figures 1:3 and 1:4 show the
adult male and female worms in the free-living stage. Figure 1 :5 shows the eggs which
hatch into first stage larvae (LI) shown in Figure 1:6. The egg and LI stage are the two
stages seen in feces of infected animals. Figure 1:7 is the second-stage larvae (L2), which
molts and becomes an infective larvae (L3) shown in Figure 1:8. The infective stage
larvae is capable of penetrating skin and it is at this stage that infection takes place.
Figure 1 :9 shows the tail tip of an L3 larvae, showing the bifid nature. This is the means
of identifying Strongyloides larvae from hookworm larvae, etc.

Figure 1:1 Entamoeba coli cyst, a nonpathogenic protozoa, 40x.

(Courtesy Mark L. Eberhard, Ph. D.)

Figure 1:2 Metastrongyle or lungowrm larvae, 25x.

( Courtesy Mark L. Eberhard, Ph. D.)

249

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Figure 1:3 Strongvloides fuelleborni . free living male, lOx.

(Courtesy Mark L. Eberhard, Ph. D .)

Figure 1:4 Strongvloides fuelleborni. free living female, lOx.

( Courtesy Mark L. Eberhard , Ph. D.)

250

Orangutan Parasite Survey, Continued

4 -r

#

.

Figure 1:5 Strongvloides fuelleborni ova, 40x.

(Courtesy Mark L. Eberhard, Ph. D.)

Figure 1:6 Strongvloides fuelleborni LI larva, lOx.

( Courtesy Mark L. Eberhard, Ph. D.)

251

.Qr flng fli tan Pa r tite gyryey , Continued

Figure 1:7 Strongvloides fuelleborni L2 larva, 78um long, 25x.

( Courtesy Mark L. Eberhard, Ph. D.)

Figure 1:8 Strongvloides fuelleborni L3 larva. This is the infective
stage larva, lOx. ( Courtesy Mark L. Eberhard, Ph. D.)

252

gyirvey, Continued

w

M

I

H i

!®M&!

lint

n* . tji

% l V v ..V x ,v

. * 'V

^ f NN V, *1

" - % ■■%• 5$
x ^> V

^ V\;* i

Figure 1:9 Strongvloides fuelleborni L3 showing bifid tail tip, 40x.

(Courtesy Mark L. Eberhard, Ph. D.)

Conclusion

It should be taken into consideration that parasite loads vary according to the seasonal
changes in the environment. Ideal environmental conditions for internal parasite
hatching and potential infection existed during the sample collection period.

Fecal samples from both ex-captive and wild orangutans can be successfully collected
and analyzed in the field by use of flotation and hatching methods. Ova can be hatched
and successfully preserved for later analysis.

The major parasite found in both wild and ex-captive animals studied at Tanjung Puting
is Stronsvloides fuelleborni . Part two of this work will discuss the high incidence of this
parasite in captive orangutans. Metastrongyles, trichurids, strongyles, and Entamoeba
coli were also found to be infecting this population.

High parasite loads were found in a few juvenile, ex-captive animals. Surveys of captive
orangutan populations have shown a high incidence of parasites in this age group
(Frazier-Taylor, in press). Though adequate sample numbers were not obtained to
conclusively compare wild and ex-captive animals, environmental conditions such as
diet, ground-dwelling, or man to animal transmission may predispose ex-captives to
higher parasites loads. Further studies to evaluate the effects of environmental variables
on parasite loads may be warranted.

Acknowledgements;

Many people play a part in every research project no matter how large or small. I was
fortunate to have a tremendous amount of support. Some of the people that played key roles
in this project were:

My husband Geoffrey who has given continuous support over the years emotionally,
financially as well as being an objective editor.

253

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Helen Shewman, Keeper at WPZ, who was my companion throughout the Indonesia trip
and gave me assistance and emotional support.

William Morton, DVM, provided essential contacts in Indonesia which not only made the
trip easy and enjoyable but kept us from getting lost.

Mark L. Eberhard, Ph. D., provided extensive training and support with evaluation of the
samples, providing parasite photographs, and editing the manuscript.

James Foster, DVM, who was my advisor in developing the project and was essential in
providing equipment and time to carry out the project.

Dondin Sajuthi, DVM; Cucu Sajuthi, DVM; Mr. Chuck Darsono, and Mamak who were
our friends, guides, translators and generally took care of use while we were in Bogor
and Jakarta., They gave us a look at Indonesia that would have otherwise been
impossible.

We wish to thank AAZK Natiolnal Research and Grants committee and the Seattle
Zoological Society for their financial support.

Thanks to Judy Ball, WPZ Operations Manager, Frank Kohn, AAZK Research
coordinator, and Marilyn Cole, Keeper at Metro Toronto Zoo for providing insights and
information that got the project off the ground.

Dr. Robert Rausch, Ph. D. for helping me run through the laboratory techniques before I
left the country.

And a very special thanks to Camp Leakey Assistants who served as field guides, friends,
teachers, and "sample" finders.

Products:

OVASSAY® fecal diagnostic system
Pitman-Moore, Inc.

Washington Crossing
New Jersey 08560

Bibliography

Beaver P.C., Jung R.C., Cupp E.W., 1984. Clinical Parasitology 9th Edition.

Lee and Faber, Philadelphia, PA.

Benirschke K and Adams F.D., 1980. Gorilla Diseases and Causes of Death. Journal of
Reproduction and Fertility, Supplement 28:139-148.

Cousins D., 1983. Mortality Factors in Captive Gorillas (Gorilla gorilla) . International
Zoo News, Vol 30(3):5-17.

Frazier-Taylor H., Karesh, W.B. A Survey of Intestinal Parasites in Wild, Ex-captive
and Captive Orangutans CPongo pvgmaeus ) : an American Association of Zoo
Keepers, Inc. Research Project, Animal Keepers' Forum, Vol 14, No 8, August,! 987.

Harada Y., Mori O. 1955. New Method for Culturing Hookworms. Yonago Acta
Medicine.

Vol 1:177-179.

Pratt, Paul W., Ed., 1985. Laboratory Procedures for Animal Health Technicians. First
Edition. American Veterinary Publications, Inc., Santa Barbara, CA.

254

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, Seatde, WA
98103. (206) 625-5402 [work] (206) 745-8198 [home]

R EGIONAL 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 AUanta, 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 98 103 (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 Knocks! AKF , 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.

REPTILE KEEPER to work primarily with diverse collection of exotic reptiles and

amphibians. Applicants should have experience with venomous and non-venmous snakes and
an interest in crocodilians. This position requires two years' experience in the care and
propagation of amphibians and reptiles, a high school diploma, and valid driver’s license.
Starting salary $5.86/hour, plus benefits. Send letters of inquiry and resumes to: Ms. Rosie
Jones, Personnel Director, City of Lufkin, P.O. Drawer 190, Lufkin, TX 75902-0190 by 25 August
1987.

ZOOKEEPER permanent year-round position. Experienced, ambitious person to provide

husbandry for a diverse collection of small animals including mammals, birds, reptiles, insects
and fishes. Assist in ongoing propagation programs. B.Sc. in biology, environ-
mental studies or related field. Practical experience may supplement for educa-
tion. Salary - $10,000 to $12,000 annually plus benefits. Send resume and letter
of intent by 1 September 1987 to: Laura Trechsel, General Curator, Folsom Child-
ren's Zoo, 2800 A Street, Lincoln, NE 68502

MAMMAL KEEPER prefer previous experience with large carnivores. Start-

ing salary $11,382. Send resume to: Mark D. Pyritz, Curator of Mammals, River-
banks Zoological Park, 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210.

ELEPHANT KEEPER must have previous experience with handling elephants.

Will assist trainer with two African cows as well as work hoofstock. Starting
salary $11,382. Send resume to: Mark D. Pyritz, Curator of Mammals, Riverbanks
Zoological Park, 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210.

AVICULTURAL BREEDING & RESEARCH CENTER has two positions open:

One for experienced Hand Feeder of baby Psittacines and the other for cleaning
and caring for Cockatoos and Macaws. Includes repair of aviary, cages, nest boxes,
an understanding of the birds and a careful study of their eating habits with the
ability to discern problems through not eating, fecal change and physical look.

On-site housing available, salary negotiable, polygraph required. Send info
(background experience, personal resume) to: 1471 Folsom Road, Loxahatchee,

FL 33470-9710 (Palm Beach area).

Information Please

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Information is needed on any work done with artificial nesting materials for African
weavers. Due to our extremely dry climate we have a difficult time keeping the needed
quantity and type of grasses for nest building in the exhibit. Any information
available would be appreciated. Send information to: Connie Sweet, Associate
Curator, Santa Ana Zoo, 1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92701.

Information is needed on institutions which would be interested in obtaining 2.0 big
brown bats for use in educational programs. These animals are not for sale, but would
be given to any facility that is willing to give them a good home and use them for bat
conservation. Contact for details: Susan M. Barnard, 6146 Fieldcrest Dr., Morrow,
GA 30260; Tel (404) 624-5618.

256

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

$20.00 Affiliate
Other staff & volunteers

$15.00 Associate
Those not connected
with an animal facility

$50.00 Contributing
Organizations and
Individuals

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 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 Keeners' 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 will 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.

DEADLINE FOR EACH EDITION IS THE 15TH

OF THE PRECEDING MONTH

Articles printed do not necessarily reflect the
opinions of the Animal Keeners' 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.

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keepers'

■orurn

September 1987

I

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dicated to Professional Animal Care

ANIMAL KEEPERS' FORUM. 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606

Executive Editor: Alice Miser September 1987

Managing Editor: Susan Chan Volume Fourteen

Associate Editor: Ron Ringer Number Nine

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

Brint Spencer, Minnesota Zoological Gardens, Apple Valley, MN

COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS - PROJECT HEADS

Conference Book Committee

Phil Pennock, Woodland Park
Awards Committee
Rachel Rogers, Miami Metrozoo
Book Review' Coordinator

Kathy Sucharitakul, Akron Zoo

L e gi slative A ctio n Committ ee

Becky Rogers, Topeka Zoo

International Affairs Coordinators - Melba Shields,
Calgary Zoo (west)

Staf f Exchange

Elandra Aum, Woodland Park Zoo

Program Library

Debbie Jackson, Litde Rock Zoo

E xhibit 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

Re f ere n ce Search.

Liz McLaughlin, Roger Williams Park Zoo
Jenny Rentfrow, Mason, MI

Keeper Education Committee

Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo
Re se arch/G r a n t s Committ ee

Kaci Thompson, NZP

Public Ed ucation Committ ee

Ellen Bradfield, Zoo Atlanta
A AZK _ H . i .StQr y Committ ee

Art Goodrich, San Diego Zoo
National Zoo (east) and Pam McDougall,

Animal D ata Transfer Form

Bemie Feldman, Burnet Park Zoo
Membership Directory.

National HQ Staff
Diet Notebook
Susan Bunn, Minnesota Zoo
Biological Yalues/Gestation

Greater S. F. Bay Area Chapter
Library Resources

Kaci Thompson, NZP

Infant Development .Note.bo.oJi

Steven Wing, Milwaukee Zoo
Nominations & .Ekclions

Janet McCoy, Washington Park
Zoological Gardens

CO-DIRECTORS REGIONAL COORDINATORS

States East of the Mississipp i - Diane Krug, White Oak Plantation, Yulee, FL
States West of Mississipp i - 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 of a Giant Panda ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is by K. Moktan, a keeper
in the snow leopard complex of the Padmaja Naidu Himilayan Zoological Park in India. Mr.
Moktan is among a number of foreign keepers sponsored by AAZK Chapters. He is sponsored by
the Rocky Mountain Chapter in Denver, CO. His rendering of this critically endangered
species is particularly appropriate this month as two U.S. zoos , the San Diego Zoo and the
Bronx Zoo , are currently participating in special exhibitions of the Giant Panda . Our thanks
to Mr. Moktan for sharing his talents with AKF !

SCOOPS

AND > —

SCUTTLEBUTT

RAP Session Planned at Milwaukee

The Second Annual Australasian Rap Session will be held Tuesday, 6 October from 8:00 to 9:30
p.m. during the 1987 AAZK National Conference in Milwaukee. The location of this session
will be announced at the conference. All Keepers who care for or are interested in
Australasian species are invited to participate.

New Mammal Coordinator Namfid/P^Project Head Changed

Susan Bunn, AAZK Diet Notebook Coordinator, has advised AKF that Karen Bongartz has
been appointed to the position of Coordinator for the Mammals Section. Please send all your
mammal diets to Karen at: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Route 9, Box 900, Tucson, AZ
85743.

Please also note that Ellen Bradfield, Zoo Atlanta, has replaced Jay Jasan as Head of the
AAZK Public Education Committee. All correspondence relating to the Public Education
committee should be sent to Ellen's attention. at Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Ave. S.E., Atlanta,

GA 30315.

IZN Features Articles by AAZK Members

The most recent edition of International Zoo News (No. 201, Vol. 34/2) has two feature
articles and both of them are by AAZK members. Pat Sammarco's article "The Lesser or
Collared Anteater: a Tamandua Reproduction Project at Lincoln Park" appears on pages 8-11.
Ron Ringer, Lead Elephant Keeper at the Topeka Zoo, has his article "Elephant Talk" on
pages 12-14. Congratulations to Pat and Ron on having their articles appear in IZN .

National HO - the place to send those address changes!

All AAZK members are once again reminded that it is very important that you advise
National HQ of any changes of address. Because AKF is sent under a Second Class permit, it
is not automatically forwarded as is First Class mail. If you file a change of address with
the P.O., they will eventually notify us of the change, but this may take a month or two. In
the meantime, you will be missing your mailings. Please take a moment when you are moving
to advise National of your new address - either drop us a postcard or give us a call (913-272-
5821). We want to provide you with the best service possible, but we can only do so with your
help.

Ea lc hExc hang e Set forA be Natio nal , C onferen ce

Time has been set aside for all those patch enthusiasts at the National Conference in
Milwaukee. The Patch Exchange will occur Wednesday night, at 9:00 p.m. in the conference
room. Details will be announced at the Conference. So bring all those patches to trade, or just
stop by for a look. Who knows, maybe a new hobby will be born.

257

From the President

Dear AAZK Members:

As the 1987 13th National AAZK Conference quickly approaches, I would like to encourage
all animal keepers to try to attend this rewarding event. Learning new, interesting
information regarding captive wildlife, establishing valuable contacts and exchanging
data with colleagues specializing in the same field are just some of the advantages. This
is also an excellent opportunity to learn more about the Association's projects and
committees which can only continue to successfully achieve their goals through the
genuine concern demonstrated by the membership. Most of us return from an AAZK
conference enthusiastic and anxious to apply some of our newly acquired ideas to
practical daily use. At this time, I would like to encourage all AAZK members to consider
hosting an AAZK conference at their own zoological institution. Although this can be a
challenging endeavor, the Chapter can gain so much knowledge and strength from such a
project.

In the past, the National Board of Directors have been unable to finish Association
business during the time set aside over the days scheduled for Board meetings. As each
year passes, the number of AAZK items needing to be discussed steadily increases. Due to
the limited amount of time reserved for business meetings, Saturday, 3 October, 1987, will
be a full day of board meetings closed to the general membership. Of course, following the
closed session, Sunday, 4 October, 1987, has been set aside to discuss any Association
business with members involved with AAZK projects and committees along with any other
interested members wishing to attend this meeting.

Since discussion time will be limited during Sunday's open Board meeting, members
must be willing to follow a certain protocol to be recognized by the Board to air their views.
Hopefully we can eliminate time being wasted on repeating topics during the meeting or
prevent unregulated discussion groups from erupting which often can change the whole
course of the meeting. We want to allow everyone a chance to speak, but at this point in
time, we need to regulate our time more efficiently if we hope to cover all the necessary
areas. If more time is needed to discuss individual AAZK items, a special time will be
arranged during a slow time of the week in order to resolve all AAZK business before the
close of the conference.

The Sunday meeting will begin at 8:00 a.m. and will adjourn at noon for an hour for
lunch. The meeting will reconvene at 1:00 p.m. and run to 6:00 p.m. Two hours have been
set aside for dinner. I'm hoping all busines will be completed before dinner, but if not, the
Board meeting will resume at 8:00 p.m. and continue until 10:00 p.m. or at least until
everything has been touched on.

During these open Board meetings, a certain protocol will be established in advance and
will be expected to be followed by all delegates attending such gatherings in the future. If
the agenda published in the AKF for the open Board meeting scheduled for Sunday needs
altering, a new agenda will be posted on the meeting room door beforehand. Hopefully
this year we will have all annual reports posted on a public billboard for any interested
AAZK member to examine before the topic is brought up for discussion during the open
Board meeting. Once this meeting is in session, we will try to keep things moving along
so that all business can be touched upon lightly and time is available to those members
wanting to offer their input. The President, who will act as Presiding Officer at these
Board meetings, is responsible for determining the direction of these sessions. The Vice-
President will take charge of enforcing the basic rules for topics requiring some debate
from those attending this scheduled event. Another Board member will act as time keeper
for any AAZK items brought up for open discussion. If more time is needed to hash out
problems with a specific project or committee, all discussion will end and a time and
place will be assigned during a slow part of the conference week. In the following, I have
listed some basic guidelines that every member will be expected to follow if they wish to
participate in the open Board meetings.

258

From the President . Continued

BasicRnles for AAZK Conference Qum BoardMeetings;

1. If a member wishes to make a statement not yet recognized by the Chair or
Board, the member must raise their hand until the Chair recognizes them.

2. Once a member secures the floor, they must introduce themselves and describe
their relationship to the topic in question.

3. The member then makes their statement, suggests an idea or makes a specific
motion which requires either more open discussion, a vote either in favor or against
brought about by the Board, or time needed to be set aside for further deliberation later in
the week.

4. If a member wishes to make another comment on the same topic they received
floor time for earlie, they may be allowed to address the Chair if no objections are voiced.

5. Each time a member is granted floor time by the Board for individual AAZK
items, they are allowed five minutes to express their views. If additional time is needed
they must request that the Board recognize them a second time to continue the discussion.
This is to prevent too much time being spent on the same topics.

6. Once a member proposes an idea, 15 minutes will be allowed for open
discussion. We will try to touch on every AAZK item for that length of time. Once we've
passed the 15 minute time limit, the Chair must pause briefly to end all business regarding
that particular item and schedule a special meeting to hash out unresolved problems.

1987 AAZK National Board of Directors Annual Meeting

■CLOSE D N ATIO N AL BOARD MEETING

Saturday, 3 October, 1987 — the National Officers will convene in closed session all day.

Morning - 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon

Proposed Agenda: NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS - Membership

Finances
Computer
1988 Budget
Wages
Publications
Accessories

ANIMAL KEEPERS' FORUM
NOMINATIONS/ELECTION COMMITTEE
REGIONAL COORDINATOR SYSTEM
CHAPTER LIAISON PACKETS
AAZK HISTORY COMMITTEE
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS COORDINATORS

Afternoon -12&Q noon, to frQQ p,m.

(12:00-1:00 p.m. meeting will adjourn for lunch)

KEEPER EDUCATION COMMITTEE
PUBLIC EDUCATION COMMITTEE
RESEARCH/GRANTS COMMITTEE
AWARDS COMMITTEE

259

From the President . Continued

AAZK LIAISON TO AAZPA AND IZE
PUBLIC RELATIONS LIAISON
ANNUAL CONFERENCES 1987-88
CONFERENCE BOOK COMMITTEE
LIBRARY RESOURCES
REFERENCE SEARCH
BOOK REVIEWS
LEGISLATIVE ADVISOR
STAFF EXCHANGE
KEEPER ACCOMMODATIONS LIST

E se q in g - 6; Q Q .p ,m, t o 1 Q;QQ p,m,

(6:00 to 7:30 p.m. meeting will adjourn for dinner)

AAZK FORMS - Animal Data Transfer
Exhibit Design
ZOO UNIVERSITY PROJECT
PROGRAM LIBRARY

AAZK ACCESSORIES - KC buttons, stickers, coffee
mugs, baseball caps, belt
buckles, license plates,
T-shirts;

ZOO KEEPER HUSBANDRY FUNDAMENTALS
VIDEO TAPE PROJECT
INFANT DEVELOPMENT NOTEBOOK
KEEPER TRAINING MATERIALS
IDENTIFICATION PROJECT

OPEN NATIONAL BOARD MEETING

Sunday, 4 October, 1987 — Board meeting open to all delegates

Morning - 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon

Proposed Agenda: NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

ANIMAL KEEPERS’ FORUM
AAZK PUBLICATIONS - Directoy, Zoonosis,

Biological Values, Career & Membership
Brochures, Diet & Infant Development
Notebooks;

AAZK FORMS - ADT & Exhibit Design
AAZK ACCESSORIES - KC Buttons, stickers, coffee
mugs, baseball caps, license plates, belt
buckles, T-shirts;

VIDEO TAPE PROJECT
PROGRAM LIBRARY
ZOO UNIVERSITY PROJECT
KEEPER TRAINING MATERIALS

IDENTIFICATION PROJECT
LIBRARY RESOURCES
REFERENCE SEARCH

260

From the President . Continued

Afternoon - 12:00 noon to 6:00 n.m.

(12:00-1:00 p.m. meeting will adjourn for lunch)

KEEPER ACCOMMODATIONS LIST

STAFF EXCHANGE

BOOK REVIEWS

LEGISLATIVE ADVISOR

KEEPER EDUCATION COMMITTEE

ZOO KEEPER HUSBANDRY FUNDAMENTALS

PUBLIC EDUCATION COMMITTEE

PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE

AAZK LIAISON TO AAZPA & IZE

REGIONAL COORDINATOR SYSTEM

CHAPTER LIAISON PACKETS

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS COORDINATORS

RESEARCH/GRANTS COMMITTEE

NOMINATIONS/ELECTION COMMITTEE

AAZK HISTORY COMMITTEE

AWARDS COMMITTEE

ANNUAL CONFERENCES 1987-88

CONFERENCE BOOK COMMITTEE

PROPOSALS

Evening - &QQ p,m, to 1Q;QQ p.m»

(6:00 pan. to 8:00 p.m. meeting will adjourn for dinner)

Any AAZK business not covered earlier will be discussed after dinner. We hope to
complete all business over the two days listed here, but we may have to schedule special
discussion groups throughout the conference week.

Information Please

Information is needed on any work done with artificial nesting materials for African
weavers. Due to our extremely dry climate we have a difficult time keeping the needed
quantity and type of grasses forf nest building in the exhibit. Any information
available would be appreciated. Send information to: Connie Sweet, Associate
Curator, Santa Ana Zoo, 1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92701.

Information is needed on institutions which would be interested in obtaining 2.0 big
brown bats for use in educational programs. These animals are not for sale, but would
be given to any facility that is willing to give them a good home and use them for bat
conservation. Contact for details: Susan M. Barnard, 6146 Fielder est Dr., Morrow,
GA 30260; Tel (404) 624-5618.

261

Coming Events

Seventh Annual Convention of Zoo Veterinary Technicians

October 1-3, 1987 Denver , CO

Lecture topics will include microbiology techniques for small laboratories, histology
procedures, hemoparasites in penguins, and several medical case studies. The meetings will be
held at the Stouffer Concourse Hotel and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. The registration fee of
$100 includes lectures, convention proceedings, luncheons, banquet dinner and local
transportation. A student fee of $65 includes all except luncheon and banquet dinner. Tours of
Denver Zoo and Cheyenne Mountain Zoo are scheduled. For further registration information,
please contact: Laurie Williams, Denver Zoological Gardens, 23rd and Steele St., City Park ,
Denver, CO 80205 (303) 575-5185.

19 87 AAZK National Confe ren c e

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 209 of the July 1987 issue of AKF
and send to Pat Sammarco at Lincoln Park as soon as possible.

Third Annual AZAD Conference

October 9-11, 1987 Los Angeles, CA

Association of Zoo and Aquarium Docents Confernce will feature papers on Docent
Recruitment, Training, Outreach Programs and Docent Concerns. For more information
contact: 1987 AZAD Program Chairman, Los Angeles Zoo Association 5333 Zoo Drive, Los
Angeles, CA 90027-1489.

15th Annual International Marine Animal Trainers Association Conference

October 26-20, 1987 New Orleans, LA

For more information contact: Joan Caron , Miami Seaquarium, 4400 Rickenbacker Cswy.,
Miami, FL 33149 (305) 361-5705).

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.

Births & Hatchings

Bronx Zoo . ...The Bronx Zoo Chapter reports the following endangered or otherwise
notable B&H for the month of July. The Mammology Dept, announces the birth of a male
Silver leaf monkey (Presbvtis cristalus ) on 11 July. The babies, which are born with a
bright orange coat that changes to the adult grey in 3-5 months, are extremely popular with
the public. This offspring was the tenth born to his troop that was established in Jungle
World during the summer of 1985. On 25 July, 2.3 Small-clawed otters ( Aonvx cincerea )
were born. Unlike the Lutra species of otters, Small-clawed otters are known to live in
extended family groups. With that in mind, the five young which were born last Fall
were allowed to remain with the new litter. The juveniles are working out well, learning
and assisting in the rearing of the young. On 24 July an as yet unsexed Red brocket deer
( Mazama americana) was born. This beautiful, rarely kept cervid is housed in the zoo’s
South American exhibit.

The Ornithology Dept, announces the following notable hatchings: 0.0.3 Malayan
peacock pheasant ( Polvplectron malacense) hatched during July. On 24 July, a Tufted
puffin ( Lunda cirrhata ) hatched and two Panama boat-billed herons ( Cochlearius
cochlearius) hatched on 31 July.

The Herpetology Dept, had two very notable hatchings. First, on 4 July and 9 July, ten
and eight (respectively) Broad-nosed caiman ( Caiman letirostris) hatched. This
extremely valuable species is considered endangered and it has been given a CITES I
designation. Second, on 23 July, four Coahuilian box turtles (Terranene coahuila)
hatched. This species is considered vulnerable or endangered depending where you
look, but it too has been given a CITES I designation, —submitted by Mark L. Hofling,
Corresponding Secretary, Bronx Zoo AAZK Chapter.

Zoo_Atlonig L .... Births, hatchings and acquisitions at Zoo Atlanta for July and the first half
of August include: from the Reptile Dept. - 12 corn snakes, 0.0.10 Leopard gecko, 0.0.8
Mexican bush viper, 0.0.12 Western diamondback rattlesnake, 0.0.2 Bog turtle, 0.1
Carolina pygmy rattlesnake and 0.0.4 Wood turtle (a first at Zoo Atlanta) and four
Spotted turtles. From the Bird Dept. -0.0.6 Common peafowl, 0.0.1 East African crown
crane, 0.0.40 Chilean flamingo, 1.1 Kenya crested guineafowl, 0.0.2 Dusky lory, 0.1
Yellow-backed lory, 1.0 Green-naped (rainbow) lory, 0.0.1 Sun conure, 1.2 Yellow-headed
caracaras and 0.0.3 Royal starlings.

We are all very excited about the scheduled acquisition (permanent loan) of 0.0.16
Lowland gorillas in January from the Yerkes Primate Center, —submitted by Tim
Kurkowski, Chapter Liaison, Zoo Atlanta AAZK.

Greater Baton Rouge Zoo .,. The month of July was busy at the Greater Baton Rouge Zoo.
The first of July brought the birth of a male blesbok, followed closely on 4 July by a female
blesbok (naturally named "Liberty" in honor of the date). Two litters of jungle cats were
also born in July, and a DeBrazza guenon made its appearance on 24 July. Four more Red-
sided eclectus parrots as well as two Red-crested touracos were hatched in the Bird
Department.

263

Births and Hatching s. Continued

Our Baton Rouge newspapers have been very interested in the two litters of six-week-old
snow leopard cubs, and have featured them in a large color photograph on the front page of
the morning paper. The afternoon newspaper has also shown great interest in our babies,
and has recently run a feature article and photographs about many of the spring and
summer babies. This has helped make the public aware of the many breeding successes
our animals have had this year, —submitted by Linda Sanders, Head Keeper, Greater
Baton Rouge Zoo.

The Great Plains Zoo (Sioux Falls, SD) July 29 was a special day at the Great Plains Zoo

and Museum. Barbara, our Mandrill Baboon ( Papio sphinx ), gave birth to her first offspring,
a male. Both mother and baby, who is as yet unnamed, are on exhibit with the father,
Arwana, in the Primate Building. — submitted by Linda Hoeck, Acting Liaison, Great Plains
Zoo & Museum.

Busch Gardens (The Dark Continent) Among many B&H for July 1987, this Tampa-based

facility reports the birth of 1.0 Scimitar-homed oryx and the hatching of 29 Nile crocodile.

North Carolina Zoological Park The North Carolina AAZK Chapter reports the following

B&H at two of the three facilities which participate in the Chapter. The Duke University
Primate Center announces 94 births: 30.21.14 Lemurs, 8.15.1 Galagos (bushbabies), 1.1 Tarsiers,
and 2.1 Lorises. The North Carolina Zoological Park anounces 33 births: 0.1 Chimpanzee, 0.0.1
Colobus, 0.0.2 Dwarf bushbabies, 0.1 Rock hyrax, 0.0.1 Springhaas (DNS), 0.1 Kirk dik-dik
(DNS), 0.0.1 Greater Kudu (DNS), and 0.0.2 Nyala (1 DNS). The following 29 hatchings are
also reported: 0.0.4 Palawan peacock pheasant, 0.0.2 Superb starling, 0.0.1 Palm tanager
(DNS), 0.0.4 Crested barbets, 0.0.7 Ringed teal (4 DNS), 0.0.2 Black korhaan (1 DNS), 0.0.6
Mute swan (1 DNS), 0.0.1 Scarlet ibis, and 0.0.1 Grey-headed kingfisher. — submitted by Lucy
Segerson, Secretary, North Carolina AAZK Chapter.

Columbus Zoo the recent hatchings from the Columbus Zoo's Bird Dept, were inadvertently

left out of last month’s B&H report. Our apologies. The Bird Dept, reported the following
important hatchings for this year: 0.0.6 NeNe geese, whose parents are on breeding loan from
the Phoenix Zoo; and 0.0.3 Black-footed penguins. Our American bald eagle pair, George and
Georgina, also produced a chick again this year, but it did not survive. Since 1978, this pair
has hatched nine chicks; three were hacked to the wild, one was put in a foster eagle nest and
raised naturally, one was placed in a captive breeding program, and four DNS. Other notable
bird hatchings this year were 0.0.3 Swan geese and 0.0.1 Wood duck. — submitted by Carl
Gyarmaty, Secretary, Columbus AAZK Chapter.

1988 AAZPA Regional Conferences

AAZPA Western Regional - 6-8 March, 1988 - for more information contact: Charles Farwell,
Aquarist/ Curator, Monterey Bay Aquarium, 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940 (408) 649-
6466.

AAZPA Southern Regional -20-22 March, 1988 - for more information contact: Al Fontana,
Assistant Director, or Gordon Hubbell, DVM, Miami Metrozoo, 12400 S.W. 152 St., Miami, FL
33177(305)251-0401.

AAZPA Central Regional - 10-12 April, 1988 - For more information contact: Michael LaRue,
Assistant Director, Topeka Zoological Park, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, Ks 66606 (913) 272-5821.
(This is a great opportunity to visit AAZK National Headquarters!)

AAZPA Great Lakes Regional - 24-27 April, 1988 - for more information contact: David
Lonsdale, Assistant Director, John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 South Lake Shore Drive,
Chicago, IL 60605 (312) 939-2426.

AAZPA Northeastern Regional - 1-3 May, 1988 - for more information contact: Peter
Crowcroft, Director, Salisbury Zoological Park, Box 3163, Salisbury, MD 21801 (301) 548-3188.

264

Kenya Safari

piinsafari^ Kenya Safari

Fun Safaris invites the dedicated members of the A.A.Z.K. to the wilds of
Kenya for a marvelous 16 day safari.

Experience all the excitement of viewing the wild animals, birds and
flowers in their natural habitat. Learn about the diverse eco-system of
this unique land.

Tour Highlights: Nairobi

Masai Mara Game Reserve

Lake Nakuru

Samburu Game Reserve

Aberdare National Park

Nairobi National Park

Departing: March 6, 1988

Total Cost: $2,875.00

Land and Air

For more informantion call toll

1 - 800 - 323-8020

Search On for Training Videotapes

Dear AAZK Supporter,

The Keeper Training Materials Identification Committee of AAZK is currently in search
of videotapes in use at zoos throughout the country for the purpose of keeper training.

Our goal is to acquire a list of tapes from each zoo and publish the list through the Animal
Keepers’ Forum : thus making them available to the many zoos which have not yet
established a formal keeper training program.

This committee hopes to do much "brainstorming" at our annual conference in October,
therefore it would be great help if a representative from your zoo could take a minute to fill
in the following questionnaire and return it to me.

Your participation in this project is VITAL , and will mean a great deal to the zookeeper
profession! Please fill out the questionnaire and return to: Rosemary Jalink, KTMIP
Head, do Mill Mountain Zoo, P.O. Box 13484, Roanoke, VA 24034.

Videotape Questionnaire

1. Does your zoo use any videotapes (homemade or purchased) for the purpose, or which
could be used for the purpose, of keeper training?

YES □ NO □

2. If YES, would it be possible for you to send a copy of their titles and/or content along
with this questionnaire?

YES

□

no n

3. Would you be willing to make your tapes available to others?

YES □

NO

□

4. If YES, would you like to make them available through your zoo for a listed shipment
fee, or through an established AAZK videotape library?

ZOO I

AAZK LIBRARY □

266

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Watch this space for what's new for zoos!

Earning Their Keep

By

Judie Steenberg
Australasian Unit Keeper
Woodland Park Zoological Gardens
Seattle, WA

The emu, cereopsis geese and zebra finches are doing a lot more at the zoo than meets the eye.

Due to the fact that emu are quite common in captivity, and having extra 6- foot tall, 100 lb.
birds around isn't desirable, the emu eggs are being used as membership incentives in the
Woodland Park Zoo Society's annual membership drive. There will also be a few emu eggs as
auction items at the annual Jungle Party this year. The money raised at the auction will be
matched by bond issue monies at a 4 to 1 ratio: a $50.00 emu egg is therefore worth $200.00 in
funds designated for capital improvement.

The cereopsis geese hatched out six goslings out of six eggs this year. While the market for
these birds varies from $75.00 to $300.00 per bird, there is basically very little keeper time
involved in raising the goslings. The parents do an excellent job of it. Considering the size of
the cereopsis "flock" (eight geese). ...food consumption is remarkably low. They have free
choice access to gamebird chow but prefer their natural diet of grass. They are doing a great
job of keeping the north old farm yards mowed down, and fertilized. This in turn has
eliminated the need to do any mowing of these yards so far this year. Interestingly, while the
geese could easily stay far away from the public, they are usually found quite near the
primary viewing area. Several repeat zoo visitors have enjoyed watching these "parent-
raised" birds grow up these past months.

The zebra finches are serving two important purposes. One group, on display in the potoroo
exhibit, are "catching flies".. .biological pest control. In past years, before introducing the
finches, we had to remove the animals, seal off the exhibit and spray for flies several times a
year. The potoroo diet and droppings, and the sand substrate are ideal conditions for certain
species of flies to proliferate.

The second group of zebra finches are currently providing eggs for the baby egg-eating snakes
at the Tropical Building. The keepers there report that the finch eggs are "just the right size"
for the snakes. This group of finches is currently in the tree kangaroo exhibit as a test group to
develop management protocol for small birds, with plans for the eventual introduction of
other species.

When considering the "value" of animals in the general management of the zoo, keep in mind
how various species might benefit the zoo in less obvious ways. For example: we no longer
have to catch and temporarily house the potoroo and other birds while getting ride of flies. It
is far less time consuming and expensive to take care of a small flock of finches compared to
the time to close-down and re-open the exhibit several times a year.

®

268

A Survey of Intestinal Parasites in Wild, Ex-Captive and
Captive Orangutans fPonao pyamaeus ) : An American
Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. Research Project

Part 2

By

Harmony Frazi er-Tay lor
Senior Veterinary Technician
Woodland Park Zoological Gardens
Seattle, WA

William B. Karesh, DVM
Veterinarian

Woodland Park Zoological Gardens
Seattle, WA

Introduction

Part One of this report reviewed a field project undertaken in Indonesia on intestinal
parasites in ex-captive and wild orangutans ( Pong o py gmaeus) . Strongyloides
fuelleborni was found to be the most prevelant parasite with metastrongyles, strongyles,
trichurids, and Entamoeba coli also reported. Filter hatching methods for parasite ova
were reviewed.

Upon return to the United States it became evident that little had been written on internal
parasites in the orangutan. This led to a survey of institutions housing orangutans to
find out the presence of parasite problems in captive populations and to gather information
on treatment.

The presence of parasitic disease in Gorillas (Gorilla gorilla ) has been previously
reported by Cousins (1983) as being a causative agent of fatal bacterial diseases.
Parasites, particularly Strongyloides sp. . have been reported by Benirschke (1980) as a
cause of fatal enterocolitis, a major factor in the majority of gorilla deaths. Parasitism
has also been the cause of infant orangutan deaths in the wild (Galdikas, 1984).

Part Two of this report presents results of the survey, lists treatments used, and describes
some preventive medicine programs. A brief description of the most common parasites
found with their transmission/life cycles will also be included.

Methods

Information was gathered by surveying institutions listed by International Species
Inventory System (ISIS) as housing orangutans. The survey included questions on
living conditions, number in collection, subspecies, age, parasites found, and treatments
used. The results were compiled manually and are listed in the following section.

Results

Out of the 62 international zoological institutions contacted in this survey, 50 institutions
(80%) responded. Table 2:1 displays the incidence of parasites reported by participants.
Table 2:2 displays the demographics of the animals included in this report.

269

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

All institutions reporting the presence of parasites had orangutans in various
combinations of age classes. All institutions with juvenile animals reported the
presence of parasites. The number of animals at any given institution did not appear to
correspond with the presence of parasites. Table 2:3 displays variables which were also
considered to evaluate their influence on parasite occurrence.

Routine fecal examinations are performed at 46 of the 50 institutions responding to the
survey. The number of institutions reporting various time intervals between
examinations is shown in Table 2:4. Of the 6 institutions which reported no orangutan
parasites, 4 perform routine fecal examinations biannually, 1 evaluates fecal specimens
only at the time of physical examinations and 1 did not specify this information.
Parasites found in orangutans in participating institutions, treatments used, and
effectiveness of treatment are listed in Tables 2:5(a) - 2:5(k).

In addition to routine fecal examinations, a number of zoos also have routine treatment
programs to combat parasites in their orangutans. Table 2:6 lists the treatment programs
reported.

Various parasites were reported by more than one institution (Table 2:7) and some
parasites were reported by only one institution (Table 2:8).

Conclusion

Results of the survey which included 293 animals indicated that the incidence of
intestinal parasitism is high amongst captive orangutans and have even been associated
with the death of some individuals. It appears that young juveniles are at particular risk
to parasitic infection. All institutions which maintained juvenile orangutans reported
the presence of parasites in their collections. Some zoos reported that parasites were not
present in their orangutan collections comprised of adults and infants or adults only.
Three heavily-parasitized ex-captive orangutans evaluated in Borneo (Frazier-Taylor,
in press) also fell into the juvenile age group.

The most commonly reported parasite (58%) in the captive survey, Balantidium coli was
not found in any of the samples examined from Borneo during Part One of this study
(Frazier-Taylor, in press) but has been found by other workers (Collet, 1984). The most
commonly used treatment with good levels of effectiveness reported were metronidazole,
paromycin sulfate, and tetracycline. Iodoquinol was also used with some success at
several institutions. Many institutions treat for Balantidium only in animals with
diarrhea while others attempt treatment in asymptomatic individuals to avoid infection
of other group members which may have decreased resistance. Balantidium has been
reported as the primary cause of death in great apes (Benirschke, 1980; Cousins, 1983).

The second most common parasite reported (56%) was Strongyloides and this was the
most common parasite found in wild and ex-captive orangutans (Collet, 1984; Frazier-
Taylor, in press). Thiabendazole and mebendazole were the most commonly used drugs
to treat Strongyloides and effectiveness was often associated with repeated courses of
treatment. Ivermectin given orally was reported to be effective in 4 out of 5 cases.
Strongyloides infections resulted in deaths of infants and juveniles in surveyed
institutions and have been reported in other apes (Benirschke, 1980; Cousins, 1983). One
institution reported a mortality due to Strongyloides in an infant whose parents were
negative on fecal analysis at the time of death. The rapid maturity and potential for milk
transfer of Strongyloides places infants at risk within the first few days of life.

Trichurids were reported by 34% of the institutions. This parasite was also fairly
prevalent in wild orangutan populations (Collet, 1984; Frazier-Taylor, in press). All
treatments reported in the survey appeared to have had inconsistant effectiveness.

Various management practices used in captive orangutan collections were compared
with the presence of parasites in an attempt to identify causes of persistent parasitism. No

270

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

correlation between the use of natural substrates, bedding material, feeding on floors,
continuously running water sources, and the incidence of intestinal parasites could be
found. Since successful treatment has been reported with drug therapy and
environmental conditions have little ultimate impact, the potential for parasitism cannot
be recommended as an excuse for denying the use of organic materials for
environmental enrichment.

Parasite Descriptions

The following is a review of the seven most common parasites found in this study. This
material was accumlated from a number of sources. It is hoped that it will give a general,
easy to follow, description of the parasites. For further information and reference refer to
the following authors in the bibliography: Georgi, Marcial-Rojas et. al., Schillhorn et.
al., Soulsby.

Order: Nematode

Superfamily: Metastrongyloidea

Family: Metastrongylidae

Common: Lungworm

Description: Eggs are small, ovoid, and contain a veriform embryo. This parasite is
usually detected by larvae that are found in freshly passed feces (Figure 2:1). The larva
vary greatly between species.

Transmission: These parasites of the respiratory passages and blood vessels of the lungs
are passed in the feces as eggs or larvae. These larvae may live up to three months in
moist surroundings, but are not infective and can only proceed with development after
they have been ingested by a suitable invertebrate host. After approximately ten days they
become infective. They do not escape spontaneously from the intermediate host but if it is
hurt or dies the liberated larvae are able to live in moist soil for about two weeks. Insects
are common intermediate hosts. The host becomes infected by eating the intermediate
host or the liberated infective larvae. This is an indirect life cycle. In the primary host,
they migrate to mesenteric lympathic glands where they molt, then move to the lungs
where, after further molts, they grow into adults. The first eggs are laid after about 24
days. These are passed from the trachea to the esophagus and eventually out with the
feces.

Symptoms: Respiratory distress, weight loss, unthrifty condition.

Order: Nematode

Superfamily: Ascaridoidea - Ascarids
Common: Roundworm of the small intestine
Description:

Adult Parasite: 15-35 cm in length. 0.2 to 0.4 cm in diameter. Lives in small
intestine. The female's life span is estimated to be between 6
months and 1 year. She deposits an average of 200,000 ova daily.

Fertilized Ova: Slightly ovoid, golden brown and measure 45-75 um long and 35-
50 um wide (Figure 2:2). Two distinct envelopes make up the
shell. Unfertilized ova are longer, with a thin irregular shape.

271

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Transmission: Ingestion of raw vegetables that are contaminated, drinking water that is
contaminated and substandard hygiene greatly contribute to dissemination.
Unsegmented ova are passed in feces. Optimal development takes place in moist, shady
soil with ambient temperatures of 23-33 degrees C. (75-85 degrees F.). Cell division
begins and the larval stage is reached in 9-12 days. These larva are infective about 1
week later. The hatched larva move throughout the organs (brain, kidney, liver) to the
lungs then into the small intestine maturing 2-3 months after they are ingested.
Transmission includes interuterine and lactogenic pathways.

Symptoms: In the intestime they can cause obstruction and there may be pain, fever,
diarrea or constipation. The infected animal may pass adult parasites through the anus,
mouth or nostrils. Other symptoms are anorexia, protein anemia, vitamin deficiency
plus tissue destruction and its side effects. The ova can survive temperatures ranging
from 39-10 degrees C. (100-15 degrees F.) for several months. **They are sensitive to
organic solvents, chloraform, ethyl ether, dioxane, ethyl alcohol, xylene, phenol.

Order: Nematodes
Superfamily: Trichuroidea
Family: Trichuridae
Common: Whipworm of the cecum
Description:

Adult worm - 30-45mm in length. Caudal end is extremely coiled. It is flesh-
colored, hair-like at their anterior three-fifths and thick and
fleshy in their posterior two-fifths.

Ova - 50-54um by 22-23um. Barrel shaped, triple shell, outermost shell bile
stained. Bipolar unstained mucoid plugs at either end (Figure 2:3).

Transmission: Freshly passed fertile eggs will become infective in about 21 days if
passed on warm shaded, moist soil. They then develop a first stage larva coiled inside the
egg. The embryonated eggs are ingested and the larva are set free in the small intestine.
Then the larvae move into the large bowel where they develop into adult worms within
about 3 months.

Symptoms: Associated with anemia. Nervousness, headache, insomnia, loss of appetite
and mild eosinophilla. With more severe infection: mucoid diarrhea with blood,
weakness, dehydration, emaciation, vomiting, abdominal distension and pain. With
reinfection it is difficult to cure because the adult worms and eggs may live for many
years.

Order: Nematode

Superfamily: Strongyloidea or Ancylostomatoidea (hookworm)

Common: Strongyle is common name given to wide variety of parasites in same
superfamily.

Description: Eggs are oval, thin outer shell with inner delicate membrane.

Nonembroyonated. Internal structure is a cluster of small round structures (Figure 2:4).
General size is variable depending on species.

272

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Transmission: They are passed in feces and begin embryonation immediately if the
environment is suitable (moisture, oxygen, favorable temperature). A first stage larva
can be produced within 20-24 hours. This hatches and is free living. The life of these
larva and the eggs themselves are dependent on temperature and moisture.
Temperatures below 45H degrees F. (7.2 degrees C.) may inhibit development. They can
remain dormant for several weeks until conditions are favorable. The first stage larva
feeds on bacteria and grows in size. After 3 stages of molt they become infective.
Infective larva are ingested and undergo a molt in the small intestine. Migration and
molt patterns vary with the specific species. They eventually reach maturity in the
intestine and begin to lay eggs.

Symptoms: can cause hemmorhagic ulcers, anemia, low blood protein levels, enteritis.

Order: Nematode
Superfamily: Khabitoidea
Genus: Strongvloides

Common: Threadworm of the small intestine

Description: Eggs 50-60um long by 30-35um wide. Ovoid with a thin transparent shell.
Embryonated when passed in feces (Figure 2:5).

Transmission: Direct, autoinfection, lactogenic.

Mature females usually found in the intestine lay several dozen partially embroynated
eggs every day for an undetermined period of time. This may vary from months to years.
Some eggs will hatch in the mucosal lining and these larvae will reach the outside by
passing through the anus. However, some of these larvae will metamorphose into small
infective larva before leaving the bowel. They then can cause internal autoinfection
directly, or they may penetrate the perianal area causing autoinfection. The non-
infective stage larva (rhabditiform) which are shed in the feces, grow rapidly into (non-
parasitic) free living male and female worms within 3-5 days. Copulation takes place
and the eggs are fertilized within the female. Rhadbitiform larvae hatch from these eggs
and within 3-4 days metamorphose into infective larvae, (filariform). This is the
indirect heterogenic or sexual cycle. If conditions are unfavorable, the rhabditiform
larvae arising in the intestine and gaining access to the outside may develop directly into
infective larva (filariform) without passing through the non-parasitic, sexual cycle.
This is the direct or asexual cycle and only takes 12 to 24 hours to complete. The
filariform larvae penetrate the skin, travel thorough the blood to the right side of the heart
and out through the pulmonary artery into the lungs. After several days in the lungs they
have developed into adolescent males and females. They then pass by way of the trachea
and esophagus into the intestine. To become adults the filariform larvae can also directly
reach the intestinal tract via direct ingestion by the host. They can live in the soil for
several weeks.

Symptoms: Diarrhea, ulceration. Cause hemorrhage in the lung during migration.

EBaXQZQ A

GENUS: Trichomonas - flagellated protozoan

Description: 7 to 30um with the average of 13um. 3 to 5 anterior flagella with an
undulating membrane down one side. Moves rapidly, rotating and using a lashing
action of its anterior flagella and sweeping motion of its undulating membrane (Figure
2 : 6 ).

273

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Transmission: Fecal contamination of food, water, substrates.

Life cycle: Direct

Symptoms: may cause inflammation and tissue injury. Fluid feces tends to predispose
host to multiplication of this protozoan.

GENUS: Giardia - flagellated protozoan

Description: Trophozoite - pear shaped 9 to 21um long by 5 to 12um wide. Anterior end is
broad and rounded. Posterior end is shaped like a tail. Four pairs of flagella are
arranged symmetrically and 2 nuclei are present anteriorly (Figure 2:7). Cyst - 10 to
20um in diameter. Found in formed feces.

Transmission: Cysts are passed in feces. Transmission from individual to individual
can occur through ingestion of food or water contaminated with cysts. Flies and other
insects may serve as intermediate hosts. Cyst remain viable in the intestine of flies for 24
hours. Cockroaches pass viable cyst forms several days after feeding upon material
contaminated with cysts. This is also a common parasite of mice. Once the cysts are
ingested they give rise to two trophs in the duodenum.

Symptoms: Chronic diarrhea, steatorrhea, malabsorption, fever, gas distension, pain,
and loss of appetite.

SPECIES:

- a ciliated protozoan

Description: Trophozoite - ovoid and measures 30 to 150um in length and 40 to 55um in
width. There is a funnel-shaped depression at the anterior pole (Figure 2:8). The parasite
is covered by cilia which allow the parasite to move quite actively and to direct food into its
mouth.

Cystic Stage - round or slightly ovoid measuring 40-65um, opaque and
grayish in appearance.

Transmission: Most commonly through other infected individuals. Has been found in
man, pigs, rats, fowl, guinea pigs, sheep, horses, bovine, wild boar, turtles, cockroaches
and primates. The direct life cycle requires ingestion of infected feces or material
previously contaminated with infected feces.

Predisposing factors: Undernourishment, poorly balanced diet, other diseases present,
old age, diminishing of natural resistance and coprophagy. Degree of problem is closely
related to the state of nutrition the host is in, diet composition, and quality of intestinal
flora.

Symptoms: Intermittent episodes of diarrhea, alternating with periods of normal bowel
habits or constipation. Acute form can cause nausea, vomiting, anorexia, abdominal
discomfort, 3-20 bowel movement per day of mucoid and often bloody stools, marked
weight loss.

274

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

PRODUCTS MENTIONED IN TEXT AND TABLES

Generic Name Trade Name

Manufacturer

Albendazole

experimental fluke
medication

Benzimidazole Drugs See:

Thiabendazole

Fenbendazole

Mebendazole

Parbendazole

Disophenol Parenteral D.N.P.

American Cyanamid Co.
P.O.Box 400

Princeton, NJ 08540

Doxycycline hyclate Doxychel

Lemmon Co.

P. O. Box 30

Sellersville, PA 18960

Vibramycin

Pfizer Inc.

235 East 42nd St.

New York, NY 10017

Erythromycin Erythro

Abbott Professional
Veterinary Products

N. Chicago, IL 60064

Erythromycin

Diamond Laboratories Inc.
2538 SE 43rd St

Des Moines, IA 50303

Erythromycin

Human Product Co's:
Danbury

Schein

Lederle

Zenith

Parke-Davis

Fenbendazole Panacur

American Hoechst Corp
Animal Health Division
Somerville, NJ 08876

Gentamicin Gentocin

Schering Corp.

Kenilworth, NJ 07033

Iodoquinol Yodoxin

Glenwood, Inc.

83 North Summit St
Tenafly,NJ 07670

Ivermectin Ivomec-injectable

Equvalan-oral

MSDAgvet

Division of Merck &

Co., Inc.

P.O.Box 2000

Rahway, NJ 07065

275

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

PRODUCTS MENTIONED IN TEXT AND TABLES

Generic Name

Trade Name

Manufacturer

Levamisole

Levasole

Pitman-Moore, Inc.
Washington Crossing

NJ, 08560

Tetramizole
(cattle/sheep drench)

9

Lincomycin

Lincocin

Upjohn Co.

Kalamazoo, MI 49001

Mebendazole

Telmin

Pitman-Moore, Inc.
(above)

Vermox

Janssen Pharmaceutical,
Inc.

40 Kingsbridge ltd.
Piscata Way, NJ
08854-3998

Metronidazole

Flagyl

Searle & Company
Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Box 5110

Chicago, 1L 60680

Metrogyl

Unique Pharmaceutical
Laboratories
- in Malaysia

Mycostatin

Nystatin

EJR. Squibb/Sons, Inc.
P.O.Box 4000

Princeton, NJ 08540

Neomycin sulfate

Biosol-M

Upjohn Co.

7000 Portage Rd.
Kalamazoo, ME 49001

Niclosamide

Yomesan

Haver-Lockhart

Bayvet, Division of
Cutter Labs, Inc.
Shawnee, KS 66201

Oxyte traeyeline

Liquamycin

Pfizer

LA-200

(as above)

Oxantel-pyrantel

Quantrel

Pfizer in Malaysia

Parbendazole

Vermin urn

Worm Guard

Helmatac

Being used in Japan

276

Don't Forget

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION
OF ZOOKEEPERS
MILWAUKEE 1987
Information on the following subjects may be found in back issues of
Animal Keepers' Forum .

February 1987

Milwaukee/Milwaukee County Zoo
Hotel/Sheraton Mayfair Inn
Crossword Puzzle

March 1987

Conference Photo Album

April 1987

Side Trip Information
Guidelines for Typing Papers

May 1987

AAZK 20th Anniversary Party
Post-Conferfence Tour to Chicago

Tune 1987

Member Welcome Letter

July 1987

Final Call for Papers
Tentative Program
Conference Room Reservation

August 1987

Pre-Conference Tour to Madison/Int’l Crane Foundation

Exhibitors

Zoolympics

Crossword Puzzle Clues

Down:

1. Conference '87 is in what season?

2. The Milwaukee County Zoo is on this street.

3. 1988 Conference City. Clue: It's in Arizona and begins with

the letters TUCSO.

1987 AAZK National Conference
"Day Rates" Registration Form

Please type or print. (One name per form.)

Name

Address _

City — —

Zip Code -

Zoo Affiliation

Area of Interest

AAZK Committee Member?

Submitting a paper? Yes _____ N o

Fees

Monday, 5 October $15

Tuesday, 6 October $20

Wednesday, 7 October $20

Thursday, 8 October $25 _______

Total Fees $ _______

Please make payment to: AAZK-Milwaukee Chapter.

State _

Telephone

Return this form with your fee to: Conference ’ 87 , Milwaukee County Zoo,
10001 W. Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53226.

Partial List of Papers for Conference '87

Following is a partial list of papers to be presented at the National Conference
in Milwaukee. We feel this is one of the best paper sessions, with a little
something for everyone.

How We Keep Our Gorillas Occupied

How I learned to Stop Worrying and Love My Landscape Architect

Ngare Sergoi Update

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats

Nestbuilding Behavior of the Ruffed Lemur

The Successful Introduction and Resocialization of Chimpanzees

Australasia...A Learning Experience

Notes on the Management of Fishers

Small Antelope Capture and Restraint

Destined for Survival

Breeding and Management of Tiger Quolls

Udderly Fantastic: An Overview of the Mammalian Mammary System

Translocation of 1.1 Lowland Gorillas

Hand-rearing and Re-introduction of a Mandrill

Successful Propagation of Blue-crowned Motmots

Hand-raising an Andean Condor

In addition. Dr. George Archibald, Director of the International Crane
Foundation will be our keynote speaker. We hope everyone will be able to
attend.

Conference *87 Official Airline

Northwest Orient has been named the official airline of the 1987
Conference. By calling the toll-free number below and identifying yourself
with the code #12380 the delegates will be granted a 5% discount off the
lowest available roundtrip fair for which the passenger qualified; or a 35%
discount from the regular roundtrip coach fair. For Canadian attendees a
25% discount from the roundtrip adult coach class will be honored.

Northwest has agreed to allow the discount to apply to arrival and/or
departure from either Milwaukee or Chicago to allow convenience to those
delegates who are interested in the post-conference tours in Chicago.

PHONE NUMBERS FOR BOOKING: 1-800-328-1111

1-800-272-1408 in Minnesota
1-800-328-7747 in Canada

Identification code: 12380

NORTHWEST

Hope to see YOU in Milwaukee!

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) 229-771 1 [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 Zoological Park, Detroit, MI
for the states of MI, IN, KY, and OH
Chris Garland, North Carolina Zoological Park, Asheboro, NC
for the states of NC,SC,TN, and 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) 292-6314 [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 921 12
for the states of CA, NV, UT and AZ
Honolulu AAZK Chapter (Dan Vitiello, Pres.) (808) 9234772 [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, 2355 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! They will be glad to assist you with any
information you need about AAZK.

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

PRODUCTS MENTIONED IN TEXT AND TABLES

Generic Name Trade Name Manufacturer

Paromomycin sulfate Humatin Parke-Davis

Warner-Lambert Co.
201 Tabor Rd.

Morris Plains, NJ 07950

Piperzine

Piperzine

Vet AMix

604 W. Thomas Ave.
Shenandoah, IA 51601

Antepar

Burroughs Wellcome Co
3030 Cornwallis Rd.

Research Triangle Park
NC 27709

Med-Tech, Inc.

P.O.Box 338

Elwood, KS 66024

Pyrantel pamoate

Strongid T

Pfizer Inc. (as above)

Pyrvinium pamoate

Being used in Japan

Tetracycline

Tetracycline

Pitman-Moore (above)

Tetrachel-Vet

Rachelle Laboratories,
Inc., P.O. Box 2029

700 Henry Ford Ave.
Long Beach, CA 90801

Tetracycline

Human product Co's:
Danbuiy
Pharmaceuticals
Parke-Davis

Wyeth

Zenith

Thiabendazole

Equizole

Equizole A (w/piperzine)
Equizole B (w/trichlorfon)
Omnizole

Mintezole

Merck & Co., Inc.
Animal Health Div.
Rahway, NJ 07065

Merck Sharp & Dohme
Div. of Merck & Co.

West Point, PA 19486

Vipryrium mixture

Vanquin

Being used in England

277

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:

The authors wish to thank Mark L. Eberhard, Ph.D. of the Delta Regional Primate
Research Center for his help in editing the manuscript and for providing photographs of
some of the parasites. Also, we would like to thank the following individuals at the
institutions which participated in the survey:

Atlanta Zoological Park (Zoo Atlanta), Rita MacManamon, DVM

Audubon Zoological Garden, Kelly Bird, Dee Nelson

Baltimore Zoo, Michael Cranfield, DVM

Beijing Zoo, Zheng Jinzhang

Birmingham Zoo, Sandra MacKenzie, DVM

Buffalo Zoological Gardens, Allan Prowten, DVM

Calgary Zoological Society, S.A Mainka

Cheyenne Mt. Zoological Park, Paul Calle, VMD

Chicago Zoological Society, Gail Watts

Cincinnati Zoo, Lynn Kramer, DVM

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Hallan Wendt, DVM

Dallas Zoo, Rita Buice

Denver Zoological Gardens, Laurie K. Williams

Fort Worth Zoological Park, Ralph Houy

Gladys Porter Zoo, Sherri Huntress, DVM

Henry Villas Park Zoo, David C. Hall, DVM

Hogle Zoological Gardens, Ross Anderson, DVM

Houston Zoological Gardens, Joe Flanagan, DVM

Jackson Zoological Park, Donna Jones

Jacksonville Zoo, C. Douglas Page, DVM

Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust, Julia Tagg

Kansas City Zoological Gardens, Roger Brannian, DVM

Lincoln Park Zoological Gardens, Joel Pond

Memphis Zoological Gardens & Aquarium, E.M. Douglass, DVM

Metropolitan Boston Zoo, Christine Van Gemert

Metropolitan Toronto Zoo, Kay Mehren, DVM

Metrozoo-Miami, Scott Citano, DVM

Milwaukee County Zoo, Cyd Mayer

National Zoological Park, Roberta Wallace, DVM

Oklahoma City Zoo, Barbara Baumeister, Mike Burton, DVM, Ed Ramsey, DVM

Perth Zoological Gardens, Dr. Bill Gaynor

Philadelphia Zoological Gardens, Keith Hinshaw, DVM

Phoenix Zoo, Cathy Rickabaugh

Pittsburgh Zoo, Robert Wagner, DVM

Rio Grande Zoo, Sherry Springer

Roeding Park Zoo, Paul Chaffee, DVM

Sacramento Zoo, Steve Taylor

San Francisco Zoological Gardens, Gail Hedburg

Sapporo Maruyama Zoo, Yuji Nishine

Seneca Park Zoo, Jeffery Wyatt, DVM, Roland Scott, DVM

Societe Zoologique De Granby Inc., Nancy Farrow

St. Paul's Como Zoo, Ralph Farnsworth, DVM

Taronga Zoo, G.L. Reddacliff, DVM

The Zoological Society of London, James K. Kirkwood

Toledo Zoological Society, Timothy Reichard, DVM

Topeka Zoological Park, Piper Kimball

Washington Park Zoo, Ann Schmidt

Woodland Park Zoological Gardens, Harmony Frazier-Taylor
Yerkes Regional Primate Research Center, R. Brent Swenson, DVM
Zoo Negara, Malaysia, Dr. S. Vellayan, Achammah Mathews

278

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

Aronson C.E. (ed), 1978. Veterinary Pharmaceuticals and Biologicals 1978/1979.

Harwal Publishing Co., Media, PA.

Aronson C.E. (ed), 1984. Veterinary Pharmaceuticals and Biologicals 1985/1986.

Veterinary Medicine Publishing Co., Edwardsville, KS.

Benirschke K and Adams F.D., 1980. Gorilla Diseases and Causes of Death.

Journal of Reproduction and Fertility, Supplement 28:139-148.

Collet, J., Galdikas B., Sugaijito J., Jojosudharmo S., 1984. A Coprological Study of

Parasitism in Orangutans (Pongo pvgmaeus) in Indonesia. Unpublished thesis.
National Veterinary School of Lyon, France.

Cousins, D., 1983. Mortality Factors in Captive Gorillas (Gorilla gorilla) .

International Zoo News, Vol 30(3):5-17.

Frazier-Taylor, H., Galdikas, B., Karesh, W.B. A Survey of Intestinal Parasites in
Wild, Ex-captive and Captive Orangutans (Pongo pvgmaeus) . an American
Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. Research Project, Part 1. Animal Keepers'

Forum, in press.

Galdikas, B., 1984. Personal communication.

Georgi, J.R., 1985. Parasitology for Veterinarians, Fourth Ed., W.B. Saunders Co.,
Philadelphia, PA.

Marcial-Rojas, R.A., Martinez, G. (eds), 1971. Pathology of Protozol and Helminthic
Diseases with Clinical Correlation. The Williams and Wilkins Company,
Baltimore, MD.

Physicians Desk Reference, 37th Ed., 1983. Medical Economics Co., Inc. Oradell, NJ.
Physicians Desk Reference, 40th ed., 1986. Medical Economics Co., Inc. Oradell, NJ.
Schillhom van Veen, T.W., Bukowski, J., 1986 Intestinal Helminths: A Perennial
Problem in Pets. Veterinary Medicine Supplement, August 1986. 4-12.

Soulsby, E.J.L., Helminths, Arthropods and Protozoa of Domesticated Animals

(Monnig), 6th Edition. The Williams and Wilkins Co., Baltimore, MD, 1986.

Number of

Positive For
Parasites

&

Negative For
Parasites

Total

Responding

Institutions

44

6

50

Number of

Animals

277

16

293

Table 2:1: Incidence of intestinal parasites reported by survey
participants.

279

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

liornean

Sumatran

Hybrid

Not identified

Total

Infant

2

10

6

5

23

Juven.*

8

3

11

2

24

Adult

36

31

25

11

103

Not Ident.

29

75

39

0

143

Total

75

119

81

18

293

Table 2:2: Distribution of age groups and subspecies of

orangutans maintained by institutions partici-
ing in the survey

** All institutions with juvenile animals report
positive parasite findings.

# ol Inst.

Parasite

Parasite

Reporting

Positive

Negative

natural substrates

19

17

2

no natural substr.

31

27

4

fed in feeders

6

4

2

fed on floors

45

41

4

bedding materials

22

19

3

no bedding materials

28

25

3

running water/drinkers

39

12

5

waterbowels/buckets

14

12

2

Table 2:3: Comparison of various husbandry practices used in captive
orangutans with the incidence of parasites reported.

r— —

>

24 times/year 1

3 times/year 1

12 times/year 7

2 times/year 19

8-10 times/year 1

1 time/year 5

4 times/year 10

during physicals 1
other 2

Table 2:4: The number of participating institutions using a

variety of scheduling plans for fecal parasite
examinations.

V

280

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Parasite

#Pos. % of
Coll. Coll.

# Of
Uses

Medication

Dosage

EFF. S.

N. ?

AnatnchQsama 1 2%

1

Fenbendazole

1

-

cutanei

1

Ivermectin

.2mg/Kg 1

every 2
weeks
long-term
then monthly

-

Ascarids

8 16%

4

Piperzine

3 1

-

1

Fenbendazole

1

-

1

Ivermectin

orally

1

-

1

Levamisole

1

-

1

Mebendazole

1

-

1

Oxyantel

1

-

1

2

Thiabendazole
No treatment

1

-

Table 2-5a:
number and
effectiveness
?: unknown

Compiled survey results displaying the types of parasites reported, the
percentage of collections reporting each type, treatment regimes used, and
of treatment (EFF.: effective; S.: somewhat effective; N.: not effective;
or not reported.

Parasite #Pos. % of # of
Coll. Coll. Uses

Medication

Dosage

EFF. S.

N. ?

Balantidium

coli

29 58%

13

Metronidazole
♦palability
a problem

2x recom-
mended dose
250mg PO

1

1

-

30-50mg/
kg/ day
divided TID x
10-14 days

1

6 1

3

6

Paromomycin

sulfate

25-35mg/
kg x 5 days

1

-

repeat in 2
weeks

281

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Parasite #Pos. % of # of Medication Dosage EFF. S. N. ?
Coll. Coll. Uses

B a lan ti dium

call continued lOmg/kg PO

TID

3 - 1

5 Tetracycline 40mg/kg 1

daily divided
TID for 10-14
days

3 1

Table 2-5b: Compiled survey results displaying the types of parasites reported, the
number and percentage of collections reporting each type, treatment regimes used, and
effectiveness of treatment (EFF.: effective; S.: somewhat effective; N.: not effective;
?: unknown or not reported.

Parasite #Pos. % of # of Medication Dosage EFF. S. N. ?
Coll. Coll. Uses

Balantidium 4 Iodoquinol 2x reco- 1

coli continued mmended

human dose

650 mg x - - - 1

14 days

30-50 mg/ 1
kg day
divided TID
x 14-21 days

1

4 Doxycycline

1 Ivermectin

1 Oxytetra-
cycline

1 2 1
- 1

1 - -

282

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Parasite #Pos. % of # of Medication Dosage EFF. S. N. ?
Coll. Coll. Uses

Balantidium 1

Q&k. continued

Thiabendazole

1 g, repeat
in 1 week

-

1

4

no treatment

Table 2-5c:
number and
effectiveness
?: unknown

Compiled survey results displaying the types of parasites reported, the
percentage of collections reporting each type, treatment regimes used, and
of treatment (EFF.: effective; S.: somewhat effective; N.: not effective;
or not reported.

Parasite

#P0S. % of # Of

Coll. Coll. Uses

Medication

Dosage

EFF. S.

N. ?

Coccidia

3 6% 2

no history

1

Metroni-

dazole

2x reco-
mmended
dose

1

Entamoeba

coli

9 18% 1

Thiabendazole

1

-

1

Paromomycin

sulfate

lOmg/kg
P.O. TID

1

-

1

Metroni-

dazole

2x reco-
mmended
dose

1

-

5

no treatment

En.ta.msi.eka

histolytica

3 6% 1

no history

1

Neomycin

sulfate

1

-

1

Metroni-

dazole

1 -

-

Table 2-5d: Compiled survey results displaying the types of parasites reported, the
number and percentage of collections reporting each type, treatment regimes used, and
effectiveness of treatment (EFF.: effective; S.: somewhat effective; N.: not effective;
?: unknown or not reported.

283

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Parasite #Pos. % of # of Medication Dosage EFF. S. N. ?
Coll. Coll. Uses

Enterobius 2

sp.

4%

1

1

Piperzine

Thiaben-

dazole

1

1 gram,
repeat in
one week

- - 1

Esophaao-
sotmum sd. 1

2%

1

Levamisole

1

Qjrdia SP, 6

12%

2

Metroni-

dazole

1

1

1

Mebendazole

15mg/kg 1

““concurrent

strongyloides

infection

3 no treatment

Table 2-5e: Compiled survey results displaying the types of parasites reported, the
number and percentage of collections reporting each type, treatment regimes used, and
effectiveness of treatment (EFF.: effective; S.: somewhat effective; N.: not effective;
?: unknown or not reported.

284

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Parasite #Pos. % of # of Medication Dosage EFF. S. N. ?
Coll. Coll. Uses

Hookworms 2 4% 1 Disophenol - - 1

Parenteral

1 Ivermectin 720microg 1
repeat in
7-10 days
-3rd treatment
1 month after 1st
-4th treatment
10 days after 3rd
-Final treatment
900microg 2 months
after 3rd
*19 fecals during
the 4 months follow-
ing the 1st treatment

1 Mebendazole 50mg/kg - - 1

x 7 days
7 days off
lOOmg/kg x 7 days
7 days off
50mg/kg x 7 days

lodemeba

2

4%

1

Metroni-

2x reco-

1

hu t ch Hi

dazole

mmended

dose

1 no RX

Table 2-5f: Compiled survey results displaying the types of parasites reported, the
number and percentage of collections reporting each type, treatment regimes used, and
effectiveness of treatment (EFF.: effective; S.: somewhat effective; N.: not effective;
?: unknown or not reported.

285

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Parasite

#Pos.

Coll.

% of # of
Coll. Uses

Medication

Dosage EFF. S.

N. ?

Lungworm 1?

(not confirmed)

2% 1

no RX

-

-

Strongyles

7

14% 3

Mebendazole

3

-

1

Fenbendazole

1

-

1

Piperzine

1

-

1

Pyrvinium

pamoate

1

-

1

Thiabendazole

1

-

1

Viphyrium

mixture

1

-

2

no treatment

Table 2-5g:
number and
effectiveness
?: unknown

Compiled survey results displaying the types of parasites reported, the
percentage of collections reporting each type, treatment regimes used, and
of treatment (EFF.: effective; S.: somewhat effective; N.: not effective;
or not reported.

Parasite

#Pos.

Coll.

% of # of Medication
Coll. Uses

Dosage EFF. S.

N. ?

Strongy -
loides sp.

28

56% 13

Thiabendazole

4 x year 1

-

25mg/kg 1

BID x 2 days
repeat at 10

-

day intervals

25mg/kg - 1

every 3 mos. 1

7 11

286

Orangutan Parasite Survey, Continued

Parasite #Pos. % of # of Medication Dosage EFF. S. N. ?
Coll. Coll. Uses

Stro n g y-

loides

(cont'd)

12 Mebendazole 5 week 1

program at
high doses

70mg/kg SID 1
x 7 days alternate
weeks for 3 weeks

25mg.kg x 1 -

7 days/7days off
50mg/kg x 7 days
7 days off
25mg/kg x 7 days

BID x 5 1 -

days -repeat

15mg/kg - 1

3 2 2

Table 2-5h: Compiled survey results displaying the types of parasites reported, the
number and percentage of collections reporting each type, treatment regimes used, and
effectiveness of treatment (EFF.: effective; S.: somewhat effective; N.: not effective;
?: unknown or not reported.

Parasite #Pos. % of # of Medication Dosage EFF. S. N. ?
Coll. Coll. Uses

Stronpv- 5 Ivermectin oral paste 1

l o ttos SP.

(cont’d)

injectable 1
orally-

once a month

200mg/kg 1

orally or
SubQ

1 1

287

Orangutan Parasite Survey, Continued

Parasite

#Pos.

Coll.

% of
Coll,

# of
Uses

Medication

Dosage

EFF.

S.

N. ?

Strongy-

loides so.

(cont'd)

4

Fenbendazole

monthly

1

1

2

-

2

Pyrantel

pamoate

5mg/Ib

once a month

1

-

1

1

1

Albendazol

-

-

1

Benzimidazol

drugs

1

-

-

1

Oxantel

2x reco-
mmended dose

1

-

■

1

Paromycin

sulfate

2.5mg/kg

-

1

-

1

Piperzine

« « »

1

1 no treatment

Table 2-Si: Compiled survey results displaying the types of parasites reported, the
number and percentage of collections reporting each type, treatment regimes used, and
effectiveness of treatment (EFF.: effective; S.: somewhat effective; N.: not effective;
?: unknown or not reported.

288

Orangutan Parasite Survey, Continued

Parasite #Pos. % of # of Medication Dosage EFF. S. N. ?
Coll. Coll. Uses

Tapeworms 2

4%

1

Niclosimid

1

no history

1

Trichomonads 12

24%

6

Metroni

several

dazole

weeks

1

3 days - 1

2x reco- 2
mmended
dose

1 1

1 Paromyci - - - 1

sulfate

♦recommends using
Mycostatin at same time

1 Tetracycline - - - - 1

4 no treatment

Table 2-5j: Compiled survey results displaying the types of parasites reported, the
number and percentage of collections reporting each type, treatment regimes used, and
effectiveness of treatment (EFF.: effective; S.: somewhat effective; N.: not effective;
?: unknown or not reported.

289

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Parasite #Pos. % of # of Medication Dosage EFF. S. N. ?
Coll. Coll. Uses

Trichurids 17 34% 5 Fenben- 15mg/ 1

dazole #BW x

3 days,

repeat in 3 weeks

lOmg/kg - 1-1

SID x 5 days

- - -2

4 Meben- 30mg/kg 1 - -

dazole

40mg/kg 1

SID x 2
days or

lOOmg/kg once

1 - - 1

3 Thiaben- - - - 2 - 1

dazole

2 Ivermectin orally/ - - - 1

one time

1

2 Piperzine - - - 1 - 1

1 Oxantel - - - 1 - -

1 Parben- - - - 1 - -

dazole

1 Vipryrium - - - - 1

mixture

3 no treatment

Table 2-5k: Compiled survey results displaying the types of parasites reported, the
number and percentage of collections reporting each type, treatment regimes used, and
effectiveness of treatment (EFF.: effective; S.: somewhat effective; N.: not effective;
?: unknown or not reported.

290

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Monthly:

-Ivermectin injectable, orally (for Strongyloides sp.)
-Pyrantel pamoate 5mg/Ib (for Strongyloides sp.) previously
alternated Ivermectin and Pyrantel use.

Every 2 months:

-Thiabendazole, Mebendazole, Pyrantel pamoate: alternate, then

every 6 months of alternate Mebendazole and
Pyrantel pamoate.

4 Times a year:

-Thiabendazole

-Mebendazole or Thiabendazole
-Mild wormers

Twice a year: * most often mentioned

-Mebendazole, Pyrantel pamoate, Fenbendazole, Thiabendazole
are all used by different zoos.

Once a year:

Ivermectin - 200 micrograms per kg

*One zoo noted that improved sanitation cleared balantidium
and giardia.

Table 2-6: Routine parasite treatment programs reported by participating zoos.

#

%

#

%

Balantidium sp.

29

58%

Giardia sp.

6

12%

Strongyloides sp.

28

56%

Coccidia

3

6%

Trichurids

17

34%

Entamoeba ..hisL

3

6%

Trichomonads

12

24%

Hookworms

2

4%

Entamoeba coli

9

18%

lodamoeba butchlii

2

4%

Ascarids

8

16%

unidentified

Stronglyes

7

14%

flagellates

2

4%

Table 2-7: The number and percentages of institutions reporting various parasites
in captive orangutans.

291

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Aimt ric lwsQ m a cu tan ei

Endolimax nana

Esophagostomum

E nte.rQbius.-S P *

Lung worms
Tapeworms

Table 2-8: Parasites which were reported by only one of the participating
institutions.

Figure 2:1 - Metastrongyle larva or lungworm, 25x. (Courtesy
Mark L. Eberhard, Ph.D.)

Figure 2:2 - Typical Ascarid ova or roundworm. Note thickened
shell. 40x. (Courtesy Iowa State University Press)

Figure 2:3 - Trichurid ova, whipworm. The "plug" ends are

characteristic, 40x. (Courtesy Iowa State University
Press)

Figure 2:4 - Typical Strongyle type ova, lOx. (Courtesy Kathie
Wetmore)

293

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Figure 2:5 - Strongyloides ova, threadworm. Note larva inside,
40x. (Courtesy Kathie Wetmore)

Figure 2:6 - Trichomonas _ , flagellated protozoan 7 to 30 um long.

294

Orangutan Parasite Survey. Continued

Figure 2:7 - Oiardia. flagellated protozoan. 9 to 21um long x 5 to
12um wide.

Figure 2:8 - Balantidium coli cvst and trophozite, ciliated protozoan.
30-150um long x 40 to 55um wide.

295

Institutions wishing to advertise employment opportunities are asked to send pertinent
data by the 15th of each month to: Opportunity Knocks I A KF . 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.

ZOOKEEPER requires high school diploma. Zoo experience preferred. Responsible for care

and maintenance of diverse animal collection. Salary $4.00-$5.28/hr plus benefits. Send
resume and references by 30 September 1987 to: Elmwood Park Zoo, P.O. Box 348, Norristown,
PA 19404. Attn: John Kauffman.

ZOOKEEPER ( Trainee ) BIRD DEPT ..... responsible for animal care and exhibit maintenance; |
education applicable to the field and some experience preferred but not required. Starting pay I
is $5.67/hr plus benefits. Deadline for application is 15 November 1987. Send resumes and/or
references to: San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary's Street, San Antonio, TX 78212. ATTN: Bird
Department. (EOE).

ZOOKEEPER responsibilities include the care and observation of zoo animals,

maintenance of exhibits, record-keeping, and interaction with docents and public.
Requires one year of prior zookeeping experience. Positions at the Fresno Zoo in the
following sections are tentatively scheduled to open for applications in September:
mammals, birds, relief mammals/birds, elephants/ rhinos, and swing reptiles.
Contact Personnel Department, City of Fresno, 2348 Mariposa, Fresno, CA 93721,
(209) 488-1574 or 1575 for opening dates, salary, and other information.

ZOO SUPERVISOR under direction, plans, schedules, supervises, trains, and

evaluates employees engaged in the care of zoo animals and grounds maintenance
at the Fresno Zoo. Requires a bachelor's degree in zoology, biology, wildlife man-
agement or closely related field, and 3 years of paid supervisory experience in the
care of zoo animals and knowledge of the maintenance of zoo exhibits, landscaping,
and buildings. Additional experience may be substituted for education on a year
for year basis. Contact the Personnel Department, City of Fresno, 2348 Mariposa,

Fresno, CA 93721, (209) 488-1574 or 1575 for opening dates, salary, and other information.

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ELEPHANT HANDLER requires one year experience with elephants. Will assist trainer

and participate in African elephant husbandry program and exotic hoofstock management.
Salary $1,241-$1,587 per month, benefits. Applications accepted until position filled. Send
resume to: Mike Blakely, Curator of Mammals, Kansas City Zoo, Swope Park, Kansas City, MO

296

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 will 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 .

DEADLINE FOR EACH EDITION IS THE 15TH

OF THE PRECEDING MONTH

Articles printed do not necessarily reflect the
opinions of the Animal Keeners' 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.

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Animal Keepers' Forum October 1

ANIMAL KEEPERS' FORUM , 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606

Executive Editor: Alice Miser October 1987

Managing Editor: Susan Chan Volume Fourteen

Associate Editor: Ron Ringer Number Ten

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

Brint Spencer, Minnesota Zoological Gardens, Apple Valley, MN

COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS - PROJECT HEADS

Conference B ook Committee

Phil Pennock, Woodland Park
Awards Cammjttee
Rachel Rogers, Miami Metrozoo
EQp.k_Re. Yiew . Co ord in a tor

Kathy Sucharitakul, Akron Zoo

L eg i s l a tive A cti on Committ ee

Becky Rogers, Topeka Zoo

International Affairs Coordinators - Melba Shields,
Calgary Zoo (west)

Sta f f E xchan ge
Elandra Aum, Woodland Park Zoo
P.rogmm-LLbraix
Debbie Jackson, Little Rock Zoo
Exhibit De si gn F o rm

Diane Forsyth, Akron Zoo

K eep er-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

Keener Education Committee

Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo
Research/Grants Committ ee

Kaci Thompson, NZP
Public. Education Committ ee

Ellen Bradfield, Zoo Atlanta
AAZKJjLisliir.Y.. . Com m itt ee

Art Goodrich, San Diego Zoo
National Zoo (east) and Pam McDougall,

Animal Data Tra n s fe r Form

Bemie Feldman, Burnet Park Zoo
Membership Directory

National HQ Staff
Pi et No teboo k
Susan Bunn, Minnesota Zoo
Biological Va lu e s/G es t atio n

Greater S. F. Bay Area Chapter
Library Resources

Kaci Thompson, NZP

Infant Deveio.p.m.eM.-NQtebooJ<

Steven Wing, Milwaukee Zoo
Nominations & Elections

Janet McCoy, Washington Park
Zoological Gardens

CORRECTORS REGIONAL COORDINATORS

States East of the Mississipp i - Diane Krug, White Oak Plantation, Yulee, FL

States West of Mississipp i - 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 unique cover art celebrates the 20th anniversary of the American Association of
Zoo Keepers, Inc. What began with a handful of keepers at the San Diego Zoo in 1967 has
grown into an international organization of over 2,000 members in the U.S., Canada and
fourteen foreign countries. We thank Yoshi. Yonetani of Zoo/DEL (Zoo Design & Education
Lab) in Kobe , Japan for his enchanting design work which is also featured on the 20th
Anniversary logo coffee mugs. Thanks Yoshi and Happy Birthday AAZKH

SCOOPS

SCUTTLEBUTT

Cheriy Brook Zoo sends Thanks

The Cherry Brook Zoo in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada would like to express their
appreciation to all those who contributed materials for our display at the Atlantic National
Exhibition. We would also like to thank the staff of the Zoo and the volunteers for their
time, effort and support. Without their help this event would be impossible.

The week-long display ran from 12 noon to 12 midnight and required tremendous support to
maintain. The staff was required to stay with the animals overnight to insure their safety.
The display was a success with approximately 30,000 people visiting the building. Once
again we utilized the Endangered Species Awareness Program and gave out approximately
1000 Certificates. A new questionnaire was designed for the 1987 period. We also
incorporated a small touch table and a video on our zoo and endangered species.

We will be heading back to the Atlantic National Exposition next year and hope that during
this time we will again be able to inform and educate the visiting public on the zoo’s role in
modern day society and raise their awareness on the importance of maintaining animal
species.

I thank the Animal Keepers' Forum for the opportunity to inform members of our events and to
enable us to send out our call for materials. We do not wish to represent just the Cherry Brook
Zoo but the efforts of the zoo community as a whole and the cooperation that we all share
with one another in this profession. Any members who would like to contribute materials for
next year, please feel free to send them along at any time and have your facility represented
at the ANE. — Lynda M. Collrin, Cherry Brook Zoo, R.R. No. 1, St. John, N.B. E2L 3W2
Canada.

APT Forms Available

A reminder that Animal Data Transfer Forms are available to zoos and aquariums free of
charge upon request. Contact Bemie Feldman, Burnet Park Zoo, 500 Burnet Park Dr., Syracuse,
NY 13204.

National HO - the place to send those address changes!

All AAZK members are once again reminded that it is very important that you advise
National F1Q of any changes of address. Because AKF is sent under a Second Class permit, it
is not automatically forwarded as is First Class mail. If you file a change of address with
the P.O., they will eventually notify us of the change, but this may take a month or two. In
the meantime, you will be missing your mailings. Please take a moment when you are moving
to advise National of your new address - either drop us a postcard or give us a call (913-272-
5821). We want to provide you with the best service possible, but we can only do so with your

help.

297

1987 American Association

of Zoo Keeper Awards

The following awards were presented at the 13th National AAZK Conference held in
Milwaukee , WI from 4-8 October. The Excellence in Zoo Keeping, Meritorious
Achievement and Certificate of Merit for Zoo Keeper Education Awards are selected by
the AAZK Awards Committee from nominations proposed by the AAZK membership.
Rachel Rogers of the Miami Metrozoo is chairperson of this committee. The Excellence
in Journalism Awards are selected by the editorial staff of Animal Keepers’ Forum .

1987 Excellence in Zoo Keeping Award Winners

In recognition of their professional attitude, true dedication, superb application of animal
husbandry practices, and contribution to the welfare of the anima life placed in their
charge, AAZK presents the following individuals with this award:

Regina Grebb, Pittsburgh Zoo, Pittsburgh, PA
Her most notable accomplishments are her managerial skills used to coordinate the SSP
programs in which her zoo is involved.

Joan Marie Stinson, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL

Her most notable accomplishments are her contributions to captive elephant management
and husbandry skills.

Karen Mottram, Metro Toronto Zoo, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Her most notable accomplishments are her involvement in the hatching of Victorian
Crowned Pigeon (Goura victoria) and Bronze-winged Pigeon (Phans chalcontera) .

Bale Bakken, Calgary Zoo, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
His most notable accomplishments are his contributions to the management, husbandry
and breeding of herpetological specimens at his zoo.

AAZK Meritorious Achievement Award Winners

In recognition of outstanding achievement in the field of wildlife conservation and
animal husbandry, AAZK presents this award to the following individuals :

Glenn "Andy” Lodge, Columbus Zoo, Columbus, OH
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to Black Rhino Conservation awareness.

Cynthia Cheney, Washington Park Zoo, Portland, OR
In recognition of her outstanding contributions in the organization of educational
lectures for the Portland area community.

Certificate of Merit for Zoo Keeper Education

In recognition of the outstanding achievement by an institution in establishing and
promoting zoo keeper education at their facility, AAZK presents this award to:

Metro Toronto Zoo, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
The Metro Toronto Zoo has been chosen by professional zoo keepers to exemplify an
educational zoological facility.

298

Excellence in Journalism Awards

Outstanding Mammal Article: "Managing a Colony of
Victorian Koala at the Los Angeles Zoo"

Donald Richardson, Los Angeles Zoo

Outstanding Husbandry Article: "Maintaining Animal
Integrity in a Zoo Nursery"

Karen Raby, San Francisco Zoo, San Francisco, CA

Outstanding Exhibit Design Article: "The Use of Live Plants
in Animal Exhibits"

Judie Steenberg, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA

Outstanding Research Article: "Urinary Hormone Testing"
Susan Moy, Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL

Outstanding Safety Article: "Food Preparation I Storage
Safety Hazards Examined"

Marsha Ciborek, Akron Zoo, Akron, OH

Outstanding Veterinary Article: "The Collaboration of the Keeper
and the Veterinarian in the Chemical Restraint of Great Apes
by Hand Syringe Injection"

P.T. Robinson, San Diego Zoo, San Diego, CA

Outstanding Narrative Article: "Having a Ball with Beetlemania"

David Thornton, Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL

Outstanding Avian Article: "Artificial Insemination in Birds:
a Basic Methodology for the Modern Bird Keeper"

Kevin T. Patton, St. Mary’s College, St. Louis, MO

Outstanding Cover Art: " Japanese Crowned Cranes"
August 1986 issue

Elayne Barclay, Washington Park Zoo, Portland, OR

299

Excellence in Journalism Awards. Continued

Honorable Mention Awards

"The Socialization of the Sumatran Orangutan at Miami Metrozoo", Rachel Rogers,
Miami Metrozoo, Miami FL (Mammal Category)

"There's Nothing in this Cage: Lemming Activity", Ted Daehnke, Washington Park
Zoo, Portland, OR. (Mammal Category)

"The Short-nosed Echidna at the Los Angeles Zoo", Kay Pauli, Los Angeles Zoo, Los
Angeles, CA. (Mammal Category)

"Evaluating Forage Fed to Exotic Animals", Charlotte Kirk, Kansas City Zoo, Kansas
City, MO. (Husbandry Category)

"Joys of Convention Fundraising or a Weekend in Hell", Ed Hansen, Reid Park Zoo,
Tucson, A Z. (Narrative Category)

"Reflections on Luama", Robert Berghaier, Philadelphia Zoo, Philadelphia, PA.
(Narrative Category)

"Egg Weight Loss During Incubation", Kerry Hoffman, Reid Park Zoo, Tucson, AZ
(Avian Category)

"Keepers Care" - Cover Art June 1987 - Leslie-Ann Drummond, Calgary Zoo, Calgary,
Alberta, Canada. ( Cover Art Category)

"Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo" - Cover Art March 1987 - Geoff Creswell, Topeka Zoo,
Topeka, KS. (Cover Art Category)

.1988 AAZ PA Re g ional Conferenc es

AAZPA Western R egional - 6-8 March, 1988 - for more information contact: Charles Farwell,
Aquarist! Curator, Monterey Bay Aquarium, 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940 (408) 649-
6466.

AAZPA Southern Regional -20-22 March, 1988 - for more information contact: Al Fontana,
Assistant Director, or Gordon Hubbell, DVM, Miami Metrozoo, 12400 S. W. 152 St., Miami, FL
33177(305)251-0401.

AAZPA Central Regional - 10-12 April, 1988 - For more information contact: Michael LaRue,
Assistant Director, Topeka Zoological Park, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, Ks 66606 (913) 272-5821.
(This is a great opportunity to visit AAZK National Headquarters!)

AAZPA Great Lakes Regional - 24-27 April, 1988 - for more information contact: David
Lonsdale, Assistant Director, John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 South Lake Shore Drive,
Chicago, IL 60605 (312) 939-2426.

AAZPA Northeastern Regional - 1-3 May, 1988 - for more information contact: Peter
Crowcroft, Director, Salisbury Zoological Park, Box 3163, Salisbury, MD 21801 (301) 548-3188.

o o o o

The Milwaukee Chapter of AAZK would like to thank all those who made
the 1987 National Conference such a success. We would especially like to
thank the National membership for giving us the opportunity to show the
pride we have in our work and in our zoo. Conference '87 was a chance for
our Chapter to grow, to learn and to bring us closer together.

We urge all those unable to come to Milwaukee to start making plans to be
in Tucson next fall. We'll be there and we hope you will be too. We’re sure
you'll never forget it.

13TH NATIONAL CONFERENCE QF THE

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION
OF ZOOKEEPERS
MILWAUKEE 1987

The Conference '87 Co-chairs would like to thank the following committee
members for their time and support. We couldn't have done it without
you.

Ed Diebold
Diane Hazlett
Marie Kocovsky
Cyd Mayer
Ellen Saksefski
Toni VanDenBerg

Staffs and Volunteers of:

Brookfield Zoo

International Crane Foundation
Lincoln Park Zoo
Henry Vilas Zoo (Madison)

Shedd Aquarium
Milwaukee County Zoo

Neil Dretzka
Wayne Hazlett
Dorothy Matitz
Karin Newman
Nina Schaefer
Mary Jo Williams

Daron Graves
Chris John
John Matitz
Rich Sajdak
Dave Sorenson

301

Coming Events

15th Annual International Marine Animal Trainers Association Conference

October 26-20, 1987 New Orleans, LA

For more information contact: Joan Caron, Miami Seaquarium, 4400 Rickenbacker Cswy.,
Miami, FL 33149 (305) 361-5705).

The Fight 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.

Contraception in Wildlife

November 13-14, 1987 Philadelphia, PA

For more information contact: Priscilla Cohn, PNC, Inc., 1518 Willowbrook Lane, Villanova,
PA 19085.

The 7th Annual Dr. Scholl Conference on

The Nutrit ion of Captive W ild Animals.

December 11-12, 1987 Chicago, IL

To be held at Lincoln Park Zoo, the conference will emphasize the personnel and other
resources involved in setting up a zoo nutritional program. For registration information please
contact: Thomas Meehan, DVM, Staff Veterinarian, Lincoln Park Zoological Gardens, 2200
N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL 60614.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN1

February 1-10, 1988 San Jose, Costa Rica

For more information contact: General Assembly Office, IUCN, Avenue du Mont-Blanc, CH-
1196 Gland, Switzerland,

AAZPA School for Professional Management Development
February 7-11, 1988 Wheeling ,W. Virginia

302

Births & Hatchings

Brookfield Zoo .... The Brookfield Zoo AAZK Chapter reports the following births and
hatchings for January-June 1987: Mammal Dept. - On 9 May 1987, "Dawn", a 27-year
-old Reticulated giraffe, gave birth to her 1 1th calf, a male named "Ingine". This is
Brookfield's 43rd giraffe birth. On 15 May, "Mufuh", a 14-year-old Okapi, gave birth to
her sixth calf, a female named "Amani". This is our 18th okapi birth.

From the Primate Dept. - on 24 January 1987, Cotton-top marmoset triplets were bom.
All three babies were initially rejected: two of the three were accepted back, and the
third restless and weak did not survive. On 12 July another set of Cotton-top triplets
were bom. One infant fell off the mother and did not survive. The two remaining
babies are doing fine.

Our first female Golden-headed Lion Tamarin was bom on 19 March. Her twin was
stillborn. Our third set of male twins was born on 3 May. Another set of twins were
bom on 30 July bringing the number of offspring to nine. The total number of animals
is thirteen. 16 January and 5 March brought the births of two Tonkeana Macaques.
Both were females.

From the Bird Dept. - On 1 June, six Trumpeter swans hatched. In the fall these young
will be sent to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to become part of their
re-release program. It is anticipated they will be returned to the wild in about three
years. On 18 April, one Blue-Grey tanager hatched. Two Paradise tanagers have
hatched so far this year. The breeding program for these birds has been rejuvenated
this year as the last several attempts at hatchings have been unsuccessful.

From the Reptile Dept. - On 8 May, two South American River Terrapins hatched; this
is our first hatching of this species, —submitted by Brookfield AAZK Chapter,
Brookfield, IL.

Henry Poorly Zoo .... Notable births and hatchings at the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha
starting 31 March are as follows: Our Moscow-USA Siberian Tiger connection
produced one male offspring on 2 April. That brings our total to 3. 1 sired by the
Russian import and our female bom at the Omaha Zoo. Also in our cat complex, our
jaguar "Tripod" gave birth to two black cubs, one male/one female on 7 May. This is
her fourth litter.

Our Sea Lion (Zalophus c. califomianus ) group produced two offspring this season. A
female pup was bom on 9 June and a male on 20 June. However, the male was pulled a
few weeks after birth and is now being hand-raised in our nurseiy. This is a first for us
and so far he is doing fine.

Hoofstock births included 10.1.1 Scimitar-homed oryx (Orux dammah j , 3.1 Addax
[Addax nasomaculatus ) . and 1.4 Sable antelope IHippotraous n. niaer) . Other births
this season include: 1.0 Ring-tailed lemur, 1.0 Reeves muntjac, 1.0 Mandrill baboon,
1.0 Talapoin monkey, 0.1 White-handed gibbon, 1.0 Maxwell duiker (DNS), and 0.1
Reticulated giraffe (DNS).

Notable hatchings include: 0.0.2 NeNe goose, 0.0.2 Hamerkop, 0.0.5 White ibis, 0.0.4
Roseate spoonbill, and 0.0. 1 Coscaroba swan, —submitted by Carla Wieser, cat keeper,
Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha, NE.

303

Births and Hatchings. Continued

San Antonio Zoo .. . .The San Antonio Zoo AAZK Chapter reports these significant
births and hatchings for January through August 1987. The following endangered
species have been bred this year: 0.0.1 Yellow-headed rockfowl ( Picathartes
aumnocephalus ) . 0.0.4 Queen of Bavaria conure f Aratinaa auarouba ) . 0.0.2 Guam
kingfisher ( Halcuon cinnamomia) . 0.2 Scimitar-homed oryx (Orux dammah 1 . 0.0.1
Ring-tailed lemur l Lemur catta ) , 0.0.1 Lesser mouse lemur (Microcebur murinus ) , 0.0.2
Golden lion tamarin ( Leontopithecus rosalia 1 . 1.0 Southern white rhino (Diceros
bicomis 1 . and 1.1 Clouded leopard f Neofelis nebulosa ) . The clouded leopards, which
are being reared by the mother, are the first to be bom at this zoo in eight years. An F-l
generation pair of the highly endangered Guam kingfisher was set up in our off-exhibit
avain reproduction center early this year.

The following births and hatchings were firsts for the San Antonio Zoo this year: 15
Brazilian rainbow boa ( Enicrates cenchris 1 . 0.0. 1 Texas map turtle f Graptemus versa 1 .
0.0.4 Grey-headed kingfisher (Halcuon leucocephala ) . and 2.0 Aardwolf (Pro teles
cristatus ) . It is possible that the Texas map turtle is a first North American breeding.

Other notable species bred include: 0.0.3 African spurred tortoise ( Geochelone
yniphora 1 . 0.0.4 Hawkhead parrot ( Deoptuus accitrinus 1 . 0.0.2 Galah ( Eolophus
roseicapillus ) . 0.0.3 Bartlett's bleeding heart pigeon (Gallicolumba luzonica ) . 1.1
Andean condor (Vultur aruphus ) . 0.0.2 Crested screamer (Chauna torquata ) . 0.0.1 Inca
tern f Larostema inca) . 2.0.6 Prevost's squirrel f Callosciurus prevostii 1 . 0.1.3 African
hedgehog ( Erinaceus albiventris 1 . 1.1 Fennec fox ( Vulpes zerda ) . and 0.2 Jackson's
Hartebeest f Alcephalus buselaphus iacksoni ). —submitted by Cherie Langlois,
Secretary San Antonio AAZK Chapter, San Antonio, TX.

Bronx Zoo . .. .The Bronx Zoo Chapter proudly announces the following notable births
and hatchings for the month of August. The Mammology Dept, reports the following
significant births. On 14 August, a male lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla ) was
bom to our 25-year-old female named "Tunuka". The baby, "Konga", was her 6th
offspring. Konga was sired by our 19-year-old male, "Congo". Congo has sired three
offspring by three different females. Konga weighed 51bs 8oz at birth. He was pulled for
hand-rearing as Tunuka has shown little interest in mothering in the past. The
population of Silver leaf monkeys (Semnopithecus cristatus ) continues to grow in the
Lowland Evergreen Rainforest exhibit in Jungle World. A male was bom on 14 August,
he is the 1 1th bom to his troop and the second bom to his mother. Also this month
several endangered or rarely kept cervids were bom: on 10 August 0.1 Barasingha
(Cervus duvauceli ), on 1 1 August 1.0 Formosan sika deer (Cervus nippon taiouanous ),
and on 13 August 1.0 Red brocket deer (Mazama americana ).

In the Ornithology Dept, things have finally slowed down but two of the hatchings are
of note. First, on 2 August 0.0. 1 Tawny frogmouth (Podargus striaoides ) hatched. The
chick is being hand- reared and is reported to be cute as a button and doing well. On 12
August 0.0.1 Mauritius pink pigeon (Columba maueri ) hatched. The chick was foster
reared for 10 days by a pair of Domestic ring doves (Streptopelia risoria ). Then, on the
23rd, the chick was pulled for hand-rearing because the foster parents are usually
unable to satisfy the food requirements of the chicks for much more than a week. As of
this writing it too is reported to be doing well. —Submitted by Mark L. Hojling,
Corresponding Secretary, Bronx Zoo AAZK Chapter.

Greater Baton Rouge Zoo .. .. Several animals were bom or hatched at the Greater Baton
Rouge Zoo this August. These include: 0.1 Grevy zebra, 1.0 Barasingha deer, 1.0 Dama
gazelle, 1.0 Sable antelope, 1.0 Greater kudu, 0.1 Besia oryx, 0.0.1 Blue monkey, 0.0.4
Grand eclectus parrot and 0.0.2 Scarlet ibis, —submitted by Linda Sanders, Head
Keeper, Greater Baton Rouge Zoo, Baton Rouge, LA.

304

Kenya Safari

P^insafari^ Kenya Safari

Fun Safaris invites the dedicated members of the A.A.Z.K. to the wilds of
Kenya for a marvelous 16 day safari.

Experience all the excitement of viewing the wild animals, birds and
flowers in their natural habitat. Learn about the diverse eco-system of
this unique land.

Tour Highlights: Nairobi

Masai Mara Game Reserve

Lake Nakuru

Samburu Game Reserve

Aberdare National Park

Nairobi National Park
Departing: March 6, 1988

Total Cost: $2,875.00

Land and Air

For more information call toll free

1 - 800 - 323-8020

Keeper Training Materials
Identification Project Update

By

Rosemary Jalink, Project Head
Mill Mountain Zoo, Roanoke, VA

The purpose of the Keeper Training
Materials Identification Project is to aid
zoos or individuals in devising a training
program for their keepers, or, to help refine
an existing training program by offering
various materials.

The first phase of the project was to collect
and catalogue training manuals currently in use at zoos all over the country. A
preliminary list was published in the October 1986 AKF. Recently, a central library has
been established at Folsom Children's Zoo (Lincoln, NE) through Laura Trechsel, our
Manual Coordinator. This Library was set up for the sales and distribution of these
manuals. Please find below the list of available materials. Anyone interested may
contact the central library by writing: Laura Trecshel, KTMIP Manual Coordinator ,
Folsom Children's Zoo, 2800 A Street, Lincoln, NE 68502.

Laura has requested that a check for the amount of the purchase be sent along with your
order since this is not a profit-making venture, the charges are solely to cover copying
costs, as well as shipping and postage. The checks should be made out to "Folsom
Children's Zoo", noting it is for the Keeper Training Project.

We are continually searching for additional manuals and keeper education materials to
update our listing. If you or your zoo have any information or materials you wish to make
available, please send them to our central library. However, it is important to include a
letter of permission from the zoo's administration allowing us to copy those documents
sent.

The second phase of our project, videotapes, has begun. By next year we hope to be able to
catalogue and therefore make available videotapes currently in use at zoos as training
tools. There is much excitment at the possibilities of this phase of our project, but before we
can make a catalogue available we have got to hear from you as to what we can make
available! So, please if you or your zoo are using any such tapes that may be of help to
others please contact: Rosemary Jalink, Project Head, Mill Mountain Zoo, P.O. Box
13484, Roanoke, VA 24034.

Manuals Available

Burnet Park Zoo Zoo Attendant's Manual 165 pgs.

policies and guidelines; appendices on
zoo records, "Keeper-Know Thy Animal"
by Judie Steenberg and useful references
Cost: $12.00

Calgary Zoo Safety Manual for Zookeepers (Animal 82 pgs.

Restraint) "an information pool on the
topic of Zoo safety and manual restraint
of wild animals"

Cost: $8.00

306

Keeper Training Materials Identification Project Update. Coat'd.

Central Texas Zoo

Crandon Park Zoo

Dallas Zoo

Dickerson Park Zoo

Little Rock Zoo

Mill Mountain Zoo

Overton Park Zoo

and Aquarium

Manual of Operations
general information
Cost: $4.50

Zookeeper Training & Reference
Manual prepared by Vernon N.
Kisling , Jr. and Phillip R. Allen;
Extensive sections on biology/zoology,
section on care of eggs and young.
Cost: #20.00

Training Syllabus
Mammal, Bird and Reptils dept,
training programs designed to be
self-administered by the keepers.
Cost: $6.00

Employee Training Manual
designed to give the keeper an
indoctrination into the field of
zookeeping.

Cost: $12.00

Procedures and Zoo Husbandry Manual
contains glossary, taxonomic listings
which include gestation periods

Exotic Animal Husbandry Program
program set up for keepers to evaluate
and then recommend planning renovations
for exhibits using format set forth in manual

Cost of both: $12.00

Manual for Zookeepers

contains many excerpts from Calgary

Zoo manual; basic keeper education

Cost: $6.00

General Safety Procedures

bird, herp and aquarium safety procedures

Cost: $2.00

31 pgs.

217 pgs.

54pgs.

164pgs.

131 pgs.

16pgs.

52pgs.

14pgs.

307

Keeper Training Materials Identification Project Update. Coat'd.

Potter Park Zoo Procedure and Training Manual 80pgs.

outlines policies set forth in various
areas of the zoo
Cost: $8.00

Washington Park Zoo Graveyard Shift Procedures 65pgs.

procedures for this diverse keeper shift
Cost: $7.00

ZooAmerica Safety Cautions for Employees llpgs.

revised annually; job specific manual for
zoo exhibits
Cost: $1.50

Other Materials On Hand

Calgary Introduction to keeper training programs 17pgs.

Cost: $1.60

Louisville Zoo Keeper training worksheet lpg.

cost: $0.30

National Zoo

(Dept of Herpetology) Captive Care of Snakes and Turtles 12pgs.

cost: $1.50

Oklahoma City Zoo Safety procedures for herpetarium/ 5pgs.

aquarium
Cost: $0.60

Research Methods for Studying Animal Behavior in a Zoo Setting

videotape summary lpg.

Cost: $0.30

"Keeper Education at the Rio Grande Zoo" - AKF Dec. 1981 2pgs.

Cost: $0.40

San Diego Wild Animal Park - Keeper Symposium Schedule 1984-85 lpg.

Cost: $0.30

308

Keeper Training Materials Identification Project Update. Cont’d.

Woodland Park Zoo Staff Training Program

Cost: $1.00

7pgs.

"Zoonoses" - Minnesota Zookeepers Association

Cost: $1.50

14pgs.

"The Keeper Education Course at the Baltimore Zoo" - AKF July 1979 2pgs.

Cost: #0.40

"Danish Animal Keeper Training Offers Broad Scope of Instruction"
from AKF June 1986
Cost: $0.40

2pgs.

Information Please

Any members having information on heartworm treatments, problems, or preventative
measures for River Otters, please contact: Leland Eiben, 2512 1/2 Avenue K, Galveston,
TX 77550.

Anyone having information on urine collection for pregnancy testing in polar bears or
any other bears please contact: Paula Wages, Little Rock Zoo, # 1 Jonesboro Drive, Little
Rock, AR 72205.

I would like to inquire from readers as to whether or not power equipment such as back-
pack blowers (typically used to blow sidewalks clean) or gas powered yard vaccums are
used in close proximity to animals or birds at your respective facilities. If this
equipment is not used to clean areas external to exhibits and public walkways, what
methods are used? Please send all responses to: Melissa E. Smith, Applegate Zoo, 2525
"0" St., Merced, CA 95340.

Help Needed To Rebuild Files! We experienced the loss of virtually all our educational
and outreach material as a result of the Chicago area's "Flood of ’87", due to water, mud
and sewage. We would appreciate your help to replace: Visual material for posters &
programs (slides, photos, posters, etc.) and information/fact sheets on any and all
species. Brochures/information on your zoo, aquarium and/or organization would also
be appreciated. Any items than can be provided cost free w r ould be appreciated, but if
there is a cost for an item, please let us know in advance so that we can make purchase
decisions based on the finances available. If you have questions on the above, or in
regard to other needs, please let us know. Thank you! --Don Rolla, Elsa Wild Animal
Appeal, P. O. Box 675, Elmhurst, IL 60126 (312) 833-8896.

9

309

DOWN

UNDER

By

Judie Steenberg, Keeper
Woodland Park Zoo
Seattle , WA

DOWN UNDER.. ...is an information

column about Australasian ani-
mals. While there are a. number
of Keepers who work in Austral-
asian Units, or routines, oft times

a Keeper will have a few species

of animals from the Australasian zoogeographical region on their string or routine. It is
hoped this section will contain information on birds, mammals and reptiles.

This column is intended to:

-share experiences and information to improve the care and management of
Australasian animals.

-seek information and advice on problems that occur.

-serve as a forum through which to make comment, to ask questions, to
critique, or to verify information.

Please send your materials (a question, a paragraph or an article) directly to Animal
Keeners' Forum . Topeka Zoological Park, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606, Attn:
Susan Chan.

NUMBAT DIET NEWS

(reprinted from Thvlacinus , Vol. 1 1, No. 4, 1986)

World Wildlife Fund Australia's concern for the diminishing existence of the Numbat
(Mvrmecobius fasciatus ) led to the establishment of a captive breeding colony of
numbats in 1984, coordinated by Dr. Tony Friend and coworker, Dick Whitford. The
numbats' survival is threatened drastically by land clearing due to the wheat belt
expansion, and from predation by foxes and wild cats in Western Australia. Its habitat
is restricted to Wandoo eucalypt woodland which is abundant in termite supplies.

The WWF, acting practically in establishing the breeding colony, has found that
supplying termites is a time-consuming and expensive exercise involving a 100 km
drive to termite mounds. Finding an alternative supply of live ants was investigated but
an alternative appetizing diet of eggs, vitamins, water, and powdered milk was found
to be successful. This diet, previously developed for young echidnas, was gradually
introduced to the captive numbats.

It was so successful that one young female gave birth to two sets of triplets which have
been raised on the artificial diet. An older female gave birth to a set of quadruplets
which have been raised on termites to compare growth rates with offspring raised on
artificial diet.

WWF may release these captive bred animals into the wild or may use them for further
breeding in zoos where up to 25 animals may constitute a numbat breeding colony.

Note of interest to Keepers of Australasian species: recently released publication
Reproductive Physiology of Marsupials, by Flugh Tyndale-Briscoe and

Marilyn Renfree. Cambridge
University Press - 1987.

310

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animal diets for your feeding
program, call Animal Spectrum.

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4 1

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Frozen bird of prey diets
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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!

VOILA L AGAZ!

ASSOCIATION
DES GARDIENS
D’ANIMAUX DE ZOO

AGAZ? Association of ? American something? Think Quebec! Think French!

AGAZ is "1'Association des Gardiens d'Animaux de Zoo"!

Because of the language and special needs of French speaking zookeepers, a small
group of zoo people have created, some months ago, an independent association.

Like the purposes of AAZK, which was our model, the AGAZ's goals are good
relationships, motivation, education and our concern for conservation, research and
public education. Four committees work for their realization: ZORNAL (newsletter),
education, exchange, and special projects. Our association already consists of 42
people from seven of the nine Quebec zoos and aquariums. This number is far beyond
all of our expectations!

Since last year, we have had 10 monthly meetings, two AAZK video tape presentations,
five conferences, four behind-the-scenes zoological visits, and three ZORNAL
editions. Oh, and a play given by keepers to raise funds for AGAZ's creation! Phew!
One important activity was a trip to the Metro Toronto Zoo during the first weekend in
May. How can you describe the great welcome 2 1 AGAZ members received? Behind-
the-scenes and guided visits, housing... AAZK Toronto Chapter and its president,
Marilyn Cole, organized a friendly meeting where AAZK and AGAZ members, keepers,
and administrators shared experiences and opinions. We also visited the
Bowmanville Zoo and its new owner, Michael Hackenberger, on our return trip.

Who speaks French? Who speaks English ? In Toronto, AGAZ and AAZK members
find a common language to communicate and exchange information about their
work.

312

Viva L'AGAZ! . Continued

Thanks to Lawrence Cahill, Marilyn Cole and Oliver Claffey and everyone's kindness,
this trip was a successful experience. We had the chance to introduce AGAZ and to
meet colleagues who share the same willingness to improve the zoo field and the
keeper's role in it.

AGAZ's projects for the next few months - to extend our membership, give our
ZORNAL a new look, and more importantly, organize a big project to make AGAZ well
known and wealthy!

And to repeat the now famous words of Oliver Claffey in Toronto: "Just keep going!".

(Ed. Note: This report was submitted by Pierre Poirier, President of AGAZ and a
veterinary assistant at the Granby Zoo in Quebec. AAZK is excited and pleased to
welcome AGAZ as a sister organization of those dedicated to professional animal care.
For more information about AGAZ write : AGAZ, 347 Bourget, Granby, Quebec, Canada
J2G 1E8.)

Book Review

The Great Gray Owl - Phantom of the Northern Forest

By Robert W. Nero

photographs by Robert R. Taylor

Smithsonian Nature Book

155 pgs w/index 1980 hardback $14.95

Review by Ed Hansen
Reid Park Zoo
Tucson, AZ

The Great Gray Owl is written in the style of a journal, following the author's first sighting
of the Great gray owl (Strix nebulosa) in 1964 and documenting his accounts, or those of
eyewitnesses until late in 1979, in the province of Manitoba, Canada and the Northern U.S.
The book tells the account of scarce sightings in and around the late 50's and early 60's to
markedly increased populations in the late 1970's.

Generously laced with color and black and white photographs of this classic owl, their
nesting sites, parental feedings, fledglings, and capture techniques, the author narrates the
remarkable tale of the gray owls re-establishing themselves in Southern Canada. Through
intensive capture and banding regimes starting in 1969, the author takes you through most of
the Manitoba backwoods. Northern Michigan and even downtown Winnipeg in his pursuits of
the great gray owl.

Author Robert Taylor, a wildlife specialist with the department of Natural Resources in
Winnipeg, regales with interest each tale of pursuit, observation or capture with humor and
sometimes saddening reality. He documents the history of the owl in Canada from the late
1800's with stories from old farmers primed with a few shots of whiskey sipped from a flask
on a cold Canadian winter morning. He offers views of the future of the gray owl, dwelling on
the quality of the species, as opposed to the quantity .

Each chapter in the book is prefaced with the short introspective and although definately a
"coffee table" book, the Great Gray Ozvl is written with observations in such detail that you
find yourself learning a surprising amount about the nesting, feeding, territorial habits and
natural inquisitiveness of the shy and stunning great gray owl.

313

Lifesaving News For Zebra Foals

By

Wendy Marshall, Animal Keeper
Erie Zoological Society
Erie, PA

The successful establishment of a Grant's Zebra ( Equus burchelli) breeding program is |
difficult. Many critical factors come into play and must be carefully evaluated. After the
unexpected death of one of our foals, a search for answers began. The information we
accumulated led us to believe the problem had a nutritional basis. But trying to determine
the precise nutritional requirements of these equines is an arduous task. The need for
selenium and vitamin E in the diet was finally pinpointed. These nutrients play a vital
role in maintaining healthy foals. I will attempt to explain the functions of vitamin E
and selenium as well as the problems that arise due to insufficient quantity in the diet.

The precise functions of vitamin E and selenium are relatively unknown. Lack of access
to fresh, green forage or grazing on soil with insufficient selenium can lead to nutritional
problems. Unfortunately, these physiologically interrelated nutrients share many of the
same deficiency symptoms. The general symptoms are characterized by abrupt onset of
gait abnormality and/or locomotion problems. Partial paralysis of hindlimbs, ataxia,
symmertric paresis, dropped or spongy fetlocks and hyporeflexia are some of the clinical 1
signs seen in foals. These irregularities usually appear between the ages of two and
twelve weeks. Once the deficiency signs have developed, treatment with vitamin E or
selenium may be unsuccessful. Consequently, the nutritional deficiency may not become I
evident until a necropsy is performed.

In some cases generalized deterioration of skeletal and cardiac muscle are apparent, j
The spinal cord will appear to be swollen and congested, lesions may be present with
degeneration of neurons evident. These symptoms are also seen in similar disorders
such as white muscle disease, myeloencephalopathy and degenerative myelopathy, j
There has been a positive correlation established between myelopathy in captive i
Mongolian horses ( Equus przewalskii) and low vitamin E status. In addition, some
studies have proven the number of foals showing signs of ataxia significantly decreased J
with vitamin E supplementation.

Since selenium plays a role similar to vitamin E, in some cases, the benefits derived from i.
supplementation of both nutrients may be additive. Once the decision of supplementation
is made, the perplexing question of dosage arises. Selenium must be used with care
because high doses are toxic. Generally, selenium content is inversely related to the !
vitamin E concentration in the diet. You must also take into consideration the region in
which you are located. Abnormally high levels of nitrates in the soil can produce vitamin
E deficiency. Regions of low soil selenium and/or low soil pH might result in 1
deficiencies. Whereas the presence of relatively high levels of iron in the soil can form j
complexes with selenium and reduces the plant uptake of this nutrient.

Generally, the requirement for selenium in the diet is from 0.1 to 0.3 ppm per kilogram of
feed. You must evaluate your nutritional program and see what level of supplementation
to use. The addition of vitamin E to the diet is just as critical. The range of 50-75 IU per |
kilogram of diet is an acceptable level. These recommended levels are designed to meet
the basic nutritional requirements of the zebras and avoid toxicity problems. The mare
and foal pose a problem due to their special needs. Injection or supplementation of these
nutrients in the dam prior to foaling does not raise the fetal stores. In addition, the level of
selenium or vitamin E in the milk is not significant and will not effectively prevent the
problem. Selenium injections are recommended at three to four days of age. Re-
vaccination at two to four weeks of age is beneficial in providing additional protection.
These preventive steps should all lead to the maintenance of healthy foals.

314

Lifesaving News For Zebra Foals. Continued

As you know, the successful establishment of a Grant's Zebra herd is frustrating as well
as complicated. Careful attention must be paid to seemingly minute details.
Unfortunately, no precise nutritional requirements for these equines have been
established, so we must learn by trial and error. With more research being conducted on
selenium and vitamin E, the maintenance of a breeding zebra herd will hopefully not be
as difficult. The information accumulated by this research will aid keepers in the
management of these equines. The rewards of seeing healthy foals that mature and
reproduce far overshadow the maze of problems encountered along the way.

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to the institutions and persons who completed the surveys and provided
valuable information.

Literature Cited

Church, D.C. Livestock Feeds and Feeding. Second edition, pp. 166-170.

0 & B Books, Inc., 1984.

Decker, R. A. and A. M. McDermid. "Nutritional Myopathy in a Young Camel."

Journal of Zoo Animal Medicine . 8, pp. 20-21.

Fowler, Murray E. Zoo and Wild Animal Medicine. Second edition, pp. 525-527.

W. B. Saunders Co., 1986.

Liu, Si-Kwang, et al. "Myelopathy & Vitamin E Deficiency in Six Mongolian Horses."
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association . 183:11, pp 1266-1268.

Mayhew, I.G., et al. "Equine Degenerative Myeloencephalopathy: A Vitamin E

Deficiency That May Be Familial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine .
1:1, pp. 45-50.

Montali, R. J., et al. "Spinal Ataxia in Zebras." Veterinary Pathology . 11, pp. 68-78.

Strafuss, Albert C. and George A. Kennedy. "Degenerative Myopathy in a Giraffe."
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 163:6, pp. 551-552.

Wallach, Joel D. and William J. Boever. Diseases of Exotic Animals, pp. 243-247.

W.B. Saunders Co., 1983.

315

Chapter

News

Zoo Atlanta AAZK Chapter

Zoo Atlanta AAZK has been busy as
usual! We had a rummage sale in July
and made $75. We also completed the
elephant lobby renovation with a small
educational display.

Our seminars in Biology have been very
busy. Greg George, a keeper in the
Reptile Dept., gave a talk on "Sexual
Dimorphism in Barbours Map Turtle
( Graptemus barbouiri) ". On 29 July,
Mike and Erika Seres, formerly keepers
at the Budapest Zoo in Hungary, gave a
talk on their 10-years' experience there.
They also gave a slide presentation on
eastern European zoos. On 1 1 August,
Ken Terrell gave a slide presentation on
"Catastrophic versus Attritional
Mortality in the Fossil Record: A
Miocene Example".

The redevelopment of Zoo Atlanta is
progressing well. On 1 August 1987, our
new modem 7200 sq. ft. commissary
came into operation complete with
Hobart applications, stainless steel prep
equipment and a computer with
nutritional programs.

On 15 August, our new Flamingo Plaza
entryway opened to the public.
Flamingo Plaza includes a naturalistic
exhibit with 40 Chilean flamingos and
modem visitor amenities (concessions,
gift shop, restrooms, first aid station,
security station, information station,
stroller and wheelchair rentals).

—Tim Kurkowski, Chapter

Liaison

Greater Clev eland Area Chapter

National AAZK is pleased to welcome
the Greater Cleveland Area AAZK
Chapter on board. The recently elected
officers for this new AAZK Chapter are:

President Scott M. Wright

Vice Pres Jeff Polcen

Secretary Nancy L. Wright

Treasurer Mary Jo (Missy) Krock

Chapter Liaison Nancy L. Wright

San Diego AAZK Chapter

The San Diego Chapter is back on a roll
after some period of adjustment. Under
the guidance of our current officers, the
Chapter is growing and is more active
than ever. Our Chapter is carrying the
AAZK Belt Buckle project along with
San Diego Zoo logo belt buckles and
Chapter logo T-shirts. We publish a
monthly newsletter The Keeper which
has become a major source of animal
and keeper information for the
employees in our Zoological Society. We
have monthly meetings which are
always open to everyone, members and
non-members alike. These meetings are
not only informative (guest speakers,
slide shows, etc.), but also give everyone
a chance to socialize and get to know
one another.

Our Chapter includes not only the San
Diego Zoo but the San Diego Wild
Animal Park and Seaworld of San
Diego. We welcome any visiting AAZK
member to join us at our monthly
meetings is they can make them, if not
at least for a tour of our facilities. Our
local Keeper Accommodation List
representative is Jack Crayon, elephant
handler. Wild Animal Park.

Our Chapter also sponsors Mr. Keyoon
Sirmuang, Deputy Director of the
Zoological Organization of Thailand
through the AAZK "Adopt-a-Keeper"
program.

Current officers for the San Diego
Chapter of AAZK are:

Presaident Guy Lichty

Vice Pres Craig Racicot

Secretary Terri Schuerman

Treasurer Heidi Ensley

Chapter Liaison Bob Porec

—Bob Porec , Chapter Liaison

Cplumfrqg Zqq AAZK Chapter

Newly elected officers for the Columbus
Zoo AAZK Chapter are:

President..... Joe Rindler

1st Vice Pres Stacy Katz

2nd Vice Pres Nancy Doehm

Secretary Carl Gyarmaty

Treasurer Vickie Kunter

316

Chapter News. Continued

Jackson Chapter AAZK

The Jackson Chapter has elected
officers for the coming year. They are:

President Mike Hayes

Vice Pres Dave Culbertson

Sec/Treas Sheilia Craft

Historian Janice Packer

Chapter Liaison..... Donna Jones

As a Chapter, we have just recently
completed the renovation of an old,
empty prairie dog exhibit into a popular
native bird of prey exhibit. Currently,
we are displaying Barred Owls, but will
rotate a variety of raptors throughout
the year in hopes of educating visitors
about the various species we have in
Mississippi and the laws that protect
them.

We would like to say a fond farewell to
our past President, Pat Gault, who
recently joined the Audubon Park Zoo
staff. We wish him much success.

-Donna Jones, Secretary

Metro Boston Zoos AAZK Chapter

This past year we participated in the
annual Fleece Festival, raised money by
running bake sales and selling T-shirts.
We sent money to the zoo in San
Salvador, responding to their plea in
the AAZPA Newsletter. We continue to
publish a monthly newsletter which has
been a very successful source of

communication and education amongst
staff and other interested associates. We
are planning to build and erect kestrel
nesting boxes in the spring.

The following officers were elected for
the coming year:

President..... John Linehan

Vice Pres Sandy Elliott

Secretary Christine VanGemert

Treasurer Ed O'Brien

Chapter Liaison Tom Aversa

CHAPTER REMINDER

All Chapters are reminded that in order
for an individual to be a recognized
member of a local AAZK Chapter, they
must first be a member of National
AAZK. Chapters represent the National
Association on a local or regional basis
and it is therefore very important that
members are recognized by National
AAZK. Beginning next month. Chapter
officers will not be listed in this column
unless they are current AAZK members.
Your cooperation in abiding by this
AAZK regulation is very much
appreciated.

•i

ZOO RAP

The animals they Say!

We’re sorry to Say!

At 5 PM we WILL not Stay! But we’ll be

In our Hab-it-at at 8 AM....8AM....8AM"
So Goodbye Goodbye Goodbye!

(This "Zoo Rap" is used as a public announcement when closing up at the Pittsburgh Zoo)

Contributed by Tom Hayes

317

Nixon Griffis Fund for Zoological Research

Awards Seven Grants

The Nixon Griffis Fund for Zoological Research (NGFZR), established in 1984 by New
York Zoological Society Trustee Nixon Griffis, awarded seven research grants in June
1987. The recipients were:

Adam Asquith and Howard Snell, Ph.D., University of New Mexico

"Ontogenetic Changes in Nutrient Procurement and Assimilation
in the Galapagos Giant Tortoise (Geochelone elephantopus) "

Roger C. Birkel, St. Louis Zoological Park

"Field Study on the Behavior and Ecology of the Black Lemur
(Lemur macaco ) in Madagascar"

Nancy Czekala, San Diego Zoo and Bill Lasley, Ph. D., U. of CA., Davis, School of
Veterinary Medicine

"Taurine Evaluation in Captive Exotic Cats and Its Relationship to
Reproduction"

J.K Hodges, Ph.D., Zoological Society of London

"Non-invasive Assessment of Reproductive Function in the Northern
White Rhinoceros ( Ceratotherium simum cottoni) "

Katherine A. Houpt, Ph.D., Cornell University and Minu Chaudhuri, Ph.D., New York
Zoological Society

"Pregnancy Diagnosis in the Przewalski horse and Grevy's zebra - Two
Endangered Species of Equid"

Paul F. Terranova, Ph.D., and John D. Brannian, University of Kansas Medical

Center; and Roger E. Brannian, DVM, Mike Blakley, and Frank Griffin, Kansas City
Zoo, Kansas City, MO

"Two Estrous Cycle Lengths in the African Elephant"

Deanna K Tolliver, Southwest Missouri State University

"Assessment of Genetic Variability in the Scimitar-horned Oryx"

Nixon Griffis Fund for Zoological Research grants are available to members of the zoo
and aquarium community. Fund recipients may be keepers, curators, veterinarians, or
research and consulting biologists. Grants, not to exceed $3000, are awarded semi-
annually. Closing periods are 1 January and 1 July of each year. For information about
the Fund and grant application procedures, contact John Behler, Coordinator, Nixon
Griffis Fund for Zoological Research, c/o New York Zoological Society, Bronx Zoo,
Bronx, NY 10460.

Felid Research .& Conservation Inter e st Grew

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 Neil Ave., Columbus,
OH 43210.

318

Roseate Spoonbill
Round-up

By

Linda Sanders, Head Keeper
Greater Baton Rouge Zoo
Baton Rouge, LA

On 2 June 1987, several Greater Baton Rouge
zookeepers had the opportunity to collect
roseate spoonbill fledglings from a
Louisiana rookery where spoonbills, white
ibis, common egrets and tri-colored herons
were among the species nesting. State and
Federal permits were obtained allowing the
collection of thirty-nine spoonbills from the
rookery this year.

Going "into the wild" to collect animals
seems like an exciting field trip until one
realizes the rookery is covered with mud,
swarming with mosquitos and reeking of
"eau de fish-eating birds". Despite these
drawbacks, more keepers wanted to go than
could participate!

A large marsh island in southwestern
Louisiana is the site of the rookery. The
young birds were all collected from one end
of the rookery, minimizing disturbance to the
other nesting birds. The fledglings were
brought to the zoo and kept together in a large
holding pen where they were monitored and
treated for parasites and illness and/or
injury.

Zookeeper Marcelle Guidry handfeeding
smelt to a young spoonbilL (Photograph
by Linda Sanders)

During the quarantine period, the birds were introduced to their captive diet of smelt and a
ground mixture of shrimp meal, meat, carrots, roxanthin, etc. Most of the birds began
eating on their own immediately, but a few of the smaller birds had to be hand-fed several
times a day.

After four weeks of care, most of the birds were sent to other zoos who had contacted us to
collect for them on their permits. Some of the birds remained here to go into our new
spoonbill/ibis exhibit.

Although the trip had its highpoints, we have decided not to collect from the rookery next
year. First, we think the rookery should not be disturbed again next summer. Also,
babysitting several dozen spoonbills for other zoos almost became a permanent occupation
as trying to find a day cool enough to ship birds is almost impossible during a HOT
Louisiana summer!

To the zoos who received spoonbills from us YOU'RE WELCOME!!!

To the zoos who haven’t PLEASE DON'T ASK!!!

319

Kenya Diary

By

Andy Lodge

Keeper, Columbus Zoo

Columbus, OH

(Introduction by John Becker)

On the Brink of Extinction ; A Ngare Sergoi Journal

During November of 1985 Andy Lodge, a keeper in the pachyderm unit of the Columbus, Ohio,
Zoo realized a lifelong dream by leading a tour to Kenya. Andy's love for wild animals
(especially elephants and rhinos), and his fascination for the mystique of the Dark Continent
had been as a siren’s call luring him to Africa.

From his first glimpse of the primitive landscape, as the Alitalis 747 glided toward
touchdown in the brilliant African dawn, Andy experienced a thrill that few people ever
experience. For ten days, Andy and his companions vanned across Kenya, from the modern
metropolis of Nairobi to the snow-capped peaks of the magnificent Mt. Kilimanjaro.

One stop on the trip was at the huge (46,000 acre) ranch of David and Delia Craig in Northern
Kenya. Lewa Downs, as it is called, is also the site of a 5500 acre sanctuary for black rhinos.
The Craigs, fully aware of the serious plight of these animals, have set aside this land in a
valient attempt to save black rhinos from extinction. They donated the land to Anna Merz
who in turn has invested her time, effort and money in establishing the sanctuary. Her
singular devotion to stopping the salughter of rhinos has been a true labor of love, but the

venture is not without great expense.

The cost of erecting and maintaining a fence around 5500 acres is staggering. Anna must also
pay the natives who act as anti-poaching patrols, and those who maintain the living
quarters. These employees must have boots, rifles, radios and everyday necessaities such as
food. Even veterinarian care for the rhinos can be a major expense. If a rhino must be
immobilized for medical treatment it can be as much as £500 ($750 U.S.). To meet these
expenses Anna has been forced to sell her jewelry and her home in Nairobi (she now lives
permanently on the sanctuary).

While visiting the ranch, Andy discussed with Anna their mutual love for rhinos and the
very real threat to their existence. The demand for rhino horn as a traditional medicine in
the Far East, as an aphrodisiac in parts of India and for dagger handles in North Yemen has
caused a premium to be paid for the horn. The demand for rhino horn includes not only the
black and white rhinos of Africa, but of Indian, Javan and Sumatran rhinos as well. All but
the white rhino of Southern Africa are now in imminent danger of extinction due to man's
greed. Rhinos, possibly more than any other mammal, are remanants of prehistoric times. It
is hard to comprehend all the changes in the world that they have survived through the
centuries. Yet now they are on the verge of being snuffed out in our lifetime.

As Andy and Anna continued discussing rhinos and the strategies that have been developed to
protect them, Andy explained the black rhino breeding program at the Columbus Zoo. Zoo
officials, realizing that black rhinos may not survive in the wild despite private and
government sponsored conservation programs, have attempted to breed the pair of black
rhinos now in residence at the Columbus Zoo. Despite attempts at natural breeding and

320

Kenya Diary, Continued

artificial insemination, no black rhino offspring have been produced in Columbus. Few other
zoos around the world have experienced success breeding black rhinos either. This only
darkens all the more the prospects for the salvation of the species.

During their conversation, Anna mentioned that she desperately needed help in tracking and
recording the behavior of the rhinos on the sanctuary. Andy told Anna that the value of
having a zoo staff person study rhinos in the wild had been discussed on several occasions.
Both agreed that such a project would be mutually beneficial and ultimately contribute to the
conservation of black rhinos.

Andy and Anna reluctantly concluded their conversation and the tour group bid goodbye to the
Craig Ranch.

Several days later, Andy and his fellow travelers completed their tour of Kenya in the
wildlife-rich Northern Serengeti in the Masai Mara Game Reserve. The seed that had been
planted at the Craig Ranch, however, continued to grow in Andy's mind until he returned to
Columbus and the Zoo. Andy formulated a plan for studying the black rhino in Kenya and
presented a proposal to Zoo Director Jack Hanna. Jack was a receptive audience for such a
proposal, having visited the sanctuary himself and having been involved in organizing the
"Save The Rhino Fund". This fund was initiated to provide financial support in the fight to
save the black rhinos.

Within six months plans were approved for the study, and the Zoo supported the cost of
sending Andy back to Africa. He was to be the first in a series of researchers from the
Columbus Zoo to study the black rhinos in their native habitat.

The adventures Andy experienced during the six weeks of his stay at the rhino sanctuary,
including a poacher raid, are related in the following excerpts from his journal:

May 15, 1986 - 1 arrived in Nairobi this morning. I couldn't sleep very well on the flight in
because I was so keyed up. Consequently, I had the pleasure of watching the magnificent
Kenyan sunrise as it lit up the land below us. I checked into the plus Inter-Continental Hotel
and got organized for my great adventure.

May 16 - 1 got up at 5:30 a.m. and from my balcony I watched the sprawling city of Nairobi
awaken. I never tire of observing this fascinating city with its cosmopolitan admixture of
peoples. The trip to Lewa Downs took me north through hilly country adorned with coffee
and pineapple plantations and the small neat farms of the Kikuyu natives. My Park East
Tours driver and I arrived at the ranch at 3:00 p.m. I met with Anna and we discussed the
project format. Initially, my movements will be restricted until I am familiar with the area.
While we talked we saw, from her porch, a pair of rhinos sauntering through the tall grass .

May 17 - 1 went with Anna on her morning run to check on the rhino. We saw ten of the twelve,
most from a distance. We also saw a herd of Grant's gazelles, a Grevy zebra and a herd of
reticulated giraffe. Seeing the distinctly thin-striped Grevy zebra was a thrill because these
animals are becoming quite rare, and this was the first I had seen in two trips to Africa.

I am beginning to feel comfortable here despite a lingering feeling of being completely cut off
from the rest of the world. The ranch is very remote with no phone, electricity only between
the hours of 6-10 p.m. and a short-wave radio that only reaches others on the ranch. In many
ways this is a lonely, strange and beautiful place. I stood in the doorway of the small house I
now call home and gazed out at the mountainous terrain. It is dotted with scrub grasses and
Acacia trees silhouetted against an aqua blue sky. The loneliness is offset somewhat by a
Meru man who does my laundry and cleans my house. Thankfully, his English, while far from
perfect, is much better than my meager Swahili.

I just received a welcome bit of news, Jilly (a student from Nairobi who is at the ranch to study
plant life) brought me a Land Rover to use next week. Anna also assigned one of her trackers to
go with me on occasion. Things are becoming a lot more comfortable.

The Craigs sent me some supplies today, everything is starting to come together.

321

Kenya Diary, Continued

May 18 - I got up at 5:30 a.m. this morning so I could watch the sunrise - what a beautiful 1
sight! I made my breakfast, one five-minute egg and some of that aromatic Kenyan coffee. I 1
had the chance to take some photographs of Anna with Sarnia, the baby rhino she's been
hand-raising. What a sight to see the affection between the two!

I had some time this morning so I photographed the wide variety of birds that can be seen
from my house. I can't identify them all, but they come in an array of colors and sizes, and
there seems to be several types of eagles right here on the ranch.

I took a hike with Jilly and some of her friends. We went outside the reserve to a
mountainous area. We made a steep descent into a beautiful river gorge that ambles along
below a granite cliff. After a brief rest, we swam in the river and enjoyed an idyllic afternoon
in this storybook setting.

Anna gave me her notes of the observations she's made on the rhinos, and after the strenuous
hike, I think I'll just relax tonight and read through the notes.

May 19-1 went with Anna this morning. This reserve is quite large and the rhino can be very
difficult to locate, even for her. I’ve decided for my study to concentrate on selected
individuals and not try to include all twelve rhinos. Anna agreed that for the amount of time
I will be here I should not spread too thin.

I had my first experience driving the Land Rover today. I've never driven a vehicle with the
steering on the right side so it was quite an interesting ride. Jilly was very patient with me,
although I'm sure I scared her half to death. Some of the roads are quite narow and many run
along very steep hills, but I managed to get us back safely. Whether Jilly will ever go with
me again is questionable.

While on our drive we saw alot of game. We saw a very large herd of eland, many reticulated
giraffe and the first impala I’ve seen here. There also seem to be a large number of Grant's
gazelles on the ranch.

Anna's husband, Karl, is here for a week and then he must return to Europe and lecture to try !
and raise money for the rhino reserve. I listened with rapt interest as he related fascinatring
stories of their life together in Ghana in West Africa many years ago. They have certainly
had many strange and exciting adventures.

After a delightful dinner, fraught with conversation about the sad plight of the black rhino, I
returned to my house to take a bath. This seemingly simple task is not without risk here as J
small scorpions sometimes come up through the drain. Karl was stung not long ago with very
painful results. "Jumping in the tub", as we say, sometimes is not such a good idea here.

To Be Continued

322

Husbandly and Behavior of the Hamerkop
at the Dallas Zoo

By

Jamie Crane, Bird Keeper
Dallas Zoo, Dallas, TX

Almost every zookeeper has a particular animal in which he/ she develops a special interest.
The Hamerkop (Scopus umbretta) fascinated me soon after I began working at the Dallas Zoo.
Over the course of the next year and a half, I kept daily notes on the behavior of our pair of
Hamerkops. The library research I also did unfortunately provided me with only a small
amount of information about the Hamerkop in captivity. Therefore, I would like to share my
observations and the husbandry techniques used on the Hamerkop at the Dallas Zoo.

General Description

The Hamerkop is in the order Ciconiiformes and is the only member of the family Scopidae.
They are about 20 inches tall with a straight long, laterally compressed bill. The three front
toes are partially webbed with the hind toe free. Hamerkops are dull brown in color, with
sexes similar in appearance. They received their name due to the crest on their head which
bears a resemblance to the claw of an ordinary hammer. Hamerkop is German for
Hammerhead.

The Hamerkop is found throughout most of Africa, inhabiting lakes, rivers and marshes.
They have been found singly, in pairs, or in groups of up to 20. The Hamerkop's nearest
relatives, storks and herons, build simple platform nests of sticks and twigs. However the
Hamerkop, despite its relatively small size, builds an amazingly large one room "house".
They often devote six weeks or more to building their nest.

Several legends and superstitions are associated with the Hamerkop. For example, some
tribes believe that killing a Hamerkop will bring disease to the cattle or family (Cowles,
1930). As a result of the superstitions surrounding the Hamerkop, it is rarely bothered by man
and presently is not endangered or threatened.

Management

The Dallas Zoo currently has 1.1 Hamerkop on exhibit. They were purchased from Franklin
Park Zoo 14 March 1985, where they had been endoscopically sexed. Both were parent-reared
with the female hatching in June 1984 and the male hatching in September 1984. According to
records, these Hamerkops are from the same parents, yet from different clutches.

The pair are housed in our large flight pen which measures 100' x 50' x 30’. They are currently
exhibited with 16 other species of birds: Phillipine Duck, Laysan Teal, Southern Crested
Screamer, Black Swan, Wattled Curassow, Black-billed Magpie, Cattle Egret, Wood Duck,
Scarlet Ibis, White Ibis, Yellow-crowned Night Heron, Black-crowned Night Heron, Canada
Goose, Fulvous Whistling Duck, Red-legged Seriema and Roseatte Sponbill. No problems
have arisen within this mixed exhibit.

This large flight pen was built by the W.P.A. in 1937. The original pool is still used. The pool
was built in the shape of Texas and is 2 1 /2 ft. deep with the pool sides slanting somewhat.

Two stone buildings 10' x 8' are at the rear of the pen about twenty feet apart. Both buildings
have four (4) heat lamps (for winter use) and perching available. The pen is lightly planted
with 2 Bois-D-Arc trees, 1 Cypress tree, 2 Cedar trees, bamboo, and various native shrubs.
Seven nest platforms were placed in the Bois-D-Arc trees. These measure 1 1/2x1 1/2 ft. and
are constructed of 2x4-inch wood with 1x1 -inch wire on the bottom.

323

Husbandry and Behavior of the Hamerkop at the Dallas Zoo. Continued

Boat-tailed Grackles, sparrows and squirrels are the most common intruders in this pen, and
occasionally a rat or mouse is found. Often during the spring and summer, in the early morning
hours, wild Cattle Egrets and various Heron are seen perching on top of this pen.

No veterinary assistance has been needed on the two Hamerkops. They receive no j
supplementary vitamins of any kind. No injuries have ever been seen, despite occasional |
pecks from an Ibis at feeding or a pull on the tail by a Laysan Teal.

The Hamerkops appear to be quite tolerant of all weather conditions. While heat lamps in
the two buildings attract some waterfowl and Spoonbills during the colder winter days, the
Hamerkops tend to remain perched in trees or spend most of the day and night inside their
nest. During heavy rain they sometimes remain inside their nest, yet are usually outside
perching on days with light rain. The Hamerkops have been observed outside all day when ?
the wind chill was 10 degrees F. They have also been observed spending time both in and out
of the nest when temperatures are over 100 degrees F. Based upon these observations, I cannot
find any correlation that the nest is used as protection from the elements by this pair of adult
Hamerkops.

One unfortunate mistake has been made in managing these Hamerkops. Both birds were
received at the Dallas Zoo already banded with one red plastic band on the upper left leg of ■
each bird. The birds were not given new bands nor were the red bands alternated before release i
into the large flight pen. These plastic bands accumulate dirt easily and rarely can the
numbers be seen. Therefore it is nearly impossible to distinguish the male from the female.
There has been no justifiable need to capture one or both Hamerkops to correct the banding i|
problem. To do so would put an unnecessary amount of stress not only on the Hamerkops but also
on the other birds in this exhibit. Upon completion of the Dallas Zoo’s new "Wilds of Africa"
exhibit in 1988, the Hamerkops will be caught and moved to their new location. At this time j
the banding mistake will be corrected.

Since this exhibit also houses 36 Roseatte Sponbills which actively and successfully nest each i|
spring, it is the keeper’s responsibility to make sure plenty of small sticks and twigs are
available year round as the Hamerkops are continually adding to their nest. Nest building j
has occurred in all seasons of the year. However, while a new nest is being built, the old, ;
completed nest has been used as protection from the elements. Straw hay is also supplied for
nest building, which is mostly used by the Hamerkops, Red-legged Seriemas, and Black
Swans. Leaves and feathers are also occasionally used. The Hamerkops, thus far, have
always selected one of the wooden platforms on which to build their nest. On one occasion a
nest was started in the fork of a tree but was abandoned after several days.

During the height of nest building in this exhibit, in the spring and summer months, the
Hamerkop nest is often robbed by the Roseatte Spoonbills and Scarlet Ibis. Sticks and straw j
are removed by these birds from the top of the Hamerkop nest and carried to their nest
location. Young Spoonbills and Ibis have also been observed removing material from the top of
the Hamerkop nest and simply dropping it to the ground. The Hamerkops' reaction to this
will be discussed later, however s 3/8-inch nylon mesh net was secured over the top and
partially on the sides of the nest to prevent complete destruction. Though this did not stop
nest destruction it did assist in slowing it down enabling the Hamerkop to replace what had
been removed.

Diet

The Hamerkop at the Dallas Zoo are not given their own diet. They are allowed free choice
of a large variety of food items as are all the birds in this exhibit. This includes: Bird-of
-Prey® diet, chicks, mice, crickets, game bird salad. Flamingo Fare®, mixed grain, dog food,
spinach, and smelt. The Hamerkops have been observed swallowing whole mice and chicks
and also eating Bird-of-Prey®, crickets, dog food, and smelt. Live crickets are thrown
randomly about the exhibit several times a week which excites all the birds, including the
Hamerkops, who eagerly chase the crickets with crests erect.

324

Husbandry and Behavior of the Hamerkop at the Dallas Zoo. Continued

On several occasions live crayfish were put in the pool. While nearly all the birds showed
interest, the Hamerkops displayed more interest, following the crayfish and taking turns
poking at them with the other birds. Dead frogs were also given on several occasions but little
interest was shown by the Hamerkop. This was a surprise as frogs are a part of its main diet
in Africa (Brown, Urban, and Newman, 1982).

Behavior

This pair of Hamerkop exhibit many of the same behaviors which have been described for
Hamerkops in the wild. However, no observation has been made of the jump display
(LeBlanc, 1986) nor have the Dallas Zoo Hamerkops been observed vomiting as has been
observed in other Hamerkops in captivity (LeBlanc, 1986). They have not been observed
resting on their tarsi either, as is common in the stork family (Kahl, 1967). They often rest by
sitting down with their legs folded underneath while perching on a branch or support pole.
None of the group behaviors observed in wild Hamerkops have been observed either
(Hickman, 1981).

Each morning at feeding several birds fly down to the gate and wait for the handouts. Seven
months after I started working at the zoo I noticed the Hamerkops too had caught on to the
act. I began tearing off smelt heads and throwing them to the Hamerkops. Since then they
are usually among the regulars to meet me at the gate. While these Hamerkops are not
aggressive birds, they do fend off others for food. When small pieces of Bird-of-Prey® diet
are thrown about they quickly scramble after it with crests erect and with Spoonbills and Ibis
following. If medication should be needed in the future, feeding these two items in this
manner could be beneficial.

On mornings when time cannot be taken to throw food to them, the Hamerkops have learned to
follow the Spoonbills and Ibis around waiting for them to tear the smelt and then moving in
quickly to get the small pieces. They eat well on their own but, as has been described, they
will take "freebies", food from the keeper or from other birds. For example, late one afternoon
I observed one Hamerkop sitting on the log in the pool watching a Laysan Teal carry a smelt
across the pool. As the Teal swam past the log, the Hamerkop quickly flew to it and tried to
snatch the smelt from the Teal’s bill. The Hamerkop circled quickly and succeeded on the
second attempt.

The Hamerkops are highly curious. Upon entering the enclosure the keeper is watched, no
matter how long he remains. They will often follow the keeper around, flying to different
locations as if to get a better look, or to investigate piles of trash which have been raked up.
Generally in the investigating, one will fly down, followed several minutes later by the other.
Yet there are times when only one bird is curious.

Two months after these Hamerkops were placed in this exhibit they began constructing their
first nest. After 25 days the nest was abandoned and on 14 September, 1985 a second nest was
started. Nine days later the roof of this nest was completed. During the following four
months this nest was added to continuously and following much displaying and copulation by
the birds, five eggs were discovered in the nest on 5 March, 1986. Both adults incubated the
eggs, switching roughly every three hours. On 29 March three eggs were missing. Only one egg
remained on 5 April and was found to be infertile. As no fragments or remains of the eggs were
found, it is suspected that rats or squirrels were the culprits.

On 19 October, 1986 a new nest was started and was completed 11 days later. Before this site
was chosen the Hamerkops had begun building nests at four other sites. As has been
mentioned before, the Hamerkops are not aggressive birds, though they have been observed on
many occasions displaying forward threat (Kahl, 1967) and vigorous defense behaviors
(LeBlanc, 1986) toward invading birds on their nest, but have not been observed actually
attacking an intruder. They have flown at the intruders actively calling and turning away at
the last minute, and have perched on a nearby branch while calling, but make no more effort
than this to chase intruders away.

325

Husbandry and Behavior of the Hamerkop at the Dallas Zoo. Continued

The Hamerkops build their nest of sticks and straw. Straw is dipped in mud and used to
plaster the inside of the chamber. Wet straw is often used in the early stages of nest building.
When actively building, one bird stands guard over the nest site while the other gathers
material, switching when the gatherer returns. The first nest measured: Entrance-6"x 6";
Chamber Height-15-18"; Depth-2'2"; Width-2'. The second nest measured: Entrance-6" x 5
1/2"; Chamber Height-1'; Depth-26 1/2"; Width-18-24". Both entrances faced away from the
base of the tree. The nests have been at 9 ft. and 30 ft. heights above the ground, respectively.

Conclusion

From the public reactions, the Hamerkops are a great display bird. Many questions are asked
about their nest and who built it. As a result, a new sign has been printed describing their nest.
They also add life and excitment to a quiet exhibit as they are among the noisiest in the
exhibit, with the Screamers and Seriemas following in vocal intensity.

It has been the purpose of this paper to share my observations on one pair of Hamerkops in
captivity and to describe the husbandry procedures used at the Dallas Zoo for these birds. I
hope that those who exhibit these birds will enjoy reading this article and that others who
do no exhibit them will find, through reading this article, that the Hamerkop is a fascinating
bird and will enhance an aviary.

Acknowledgements

I wish to gratefully thank Ellen LeBlanc, volunteer researcher at the Audubon Zoo for her
willingness to share many articles which I could not obtain myself. Her Species Monograph
contains an excellent reference section and was very well done.

References

Brown, L.H., and E.K. Urban, and K. Newman. The Birds of Africa. Vol. 1.

Academic Press, New York. (1982)

Cowles, R. B. "The Life History of Scopus umbretta bannermani ." Auk 47:159-176. (1930)

Hickamn, G.C. "Huddling Behavior of Three Hamerkops". Ostrich 52(2):123-124. (1981)

Kahl, M. P. "Observations on the Behavior of the Hamerkop Scopus umbretta in Uganda."
Ibis 109(1)25-32.(1967)

LeBlanc, Ellen. "Species Monograph: Hamerkop Scopus umbretta ", (1986)

326

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]

REGIO N AL CO ORDIN AT O R S

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) 229-771 1 [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 Zoological Park, Detroit, MI
for the states of MI, IN, KY, and OH
Chris Garland, North Carolina Zoological Park, Asheboro, NC
for the states of NC,SC,TN, and 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, G A 30315 (404) 624-5600 [w] (404)292-6314 [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 921 12
for the states of CA, NV, UT and AZ
Honolulu AAZK Chapter (Dan Vitiello, Pres.) (808) 9234772 [w]
r 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, 2355 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! They will be glad to assist you with any
information you need about AAZK.

327

Institutiuons wishing to advertise employment opportunities are asked to send pertinent
data by the 15th of each month to: Opportunity Knocks I A KF , 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.

ZOOKEEPER (Trainee) BIRD DEPT ..... responsible for animal care and exhibit maintanance;
education applicable to the field and some experience preferred but not required. Starting
pay is $5.67/hr plus benefits. Deadline for application is 15 November 1987. Send resumes
and/or references to: San Antonio Zoo, 3903 N. St. Mary's Street, San Antonio, TX 78212.
ATTN: Bird Department. (EOE).

ZOO SUPERINTENDENT .....a full-time position responsible for administrative,
professional and technical work in the development, operation and maintenance
of a quality small zoo. Requires a bachelors's degree in zoology or closely related
field and some experience in bird and animal husbandry in a public zoo preferable.
Closing date is 13 November, 1987. Salary $15,000-$1 7,000/year plus housing and
excellent benefits. Send resume to: Park and Rec. Dept., P.O. Box 910, Watertown,
SD 57201.

CURATOR OF BIRDS Six Flags Great Adventure drive thru Safari, located in

Jackson, NJ,has an immediate position available for a Curator of Birds. In addition,
a background with hoofed stock is preferred. Excellent salary in addition to compre-
hensive benefit package. Candidates should forward resume in confidence to: Six
Flags Great Adventure, Personnel Dept., P.O. Box 120, Jackson, NJ 08527.

REPTILE KEEPER I requires high school diploma plus one year reptile/ aquarium

experience. Responsible for care/maintenance of a reptile, amphibian and fish col-
lection. Send resume and references by 15 November, 1987 to: Hayes Caldwell,
Executive Director, Caldwell Zoo, P.O. Box 428, Tyler, TX 75710

0

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WILDLIFE REHABILITATION INTERNSHIPS ....available for Autum and Winter at
Lifeline for Wildlife, Inc. Nationally recognized Wildlife Rehabilitation Center/Sanctuary
caring for 5000 wild mammals, birds and reptiles annually. On 35 acres one hour north of New
York City; a new wildlife hospital under construction. Responsibilities include all facets of
daily care for patients. Guaranteed exposure to intensive care, veterinary procedures &
surgery, and releases. But the rest is hard dirty work. 60 hour work work. 1-4 month
commitment. Housing and utilities provided; no food or stipend. Exciting, dedicated animal
rights community providing 24-hour medical care for wild animals. No academic
requirements but this is a tough program so all applicants must be energetic, hard-working,
dedicated and compassionate. Openings are also available for interns interested in
Wildlife/ Animal Rights education. Exciting opportunity to work with Director, creating and
implementing education programs for all age groups. Apply early! Please send letter and
resume to: Betsy Lewis, Executive Director, Lifeline for Wildlife, Inc., Blanchard Road, Stony
Point, NY 10980 (914) 354-7601. _

328

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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 will 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 .

DEADLINE FOR EACH EDITION IS THE 15TH

OF THE PRECEDING MONTH

Articles printed do not necessarily reflect the
opinions of the Animal Keeners' 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.

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November 1987

ANIMAL KEEPERS' FORUM. 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606

Executive Editor: Alice Miser November 1987

Managing Editor: Susan Chan Volume Fourteen

Associate Editor: Ron Ringer Number Eleven

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 the
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

BOA RD OF DIRECTO R S

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 30315

Brint Spencer, Minnesota Zoological Gardens, Apple Valley, MN 55124

COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS - PROTECT HEADS

Conference Book Committee

Phil Pennock, Woodland Park
Aw a rd s Comm ittee
Rachel Rogers, Miami Metrozoo
R oo k .. R e vi e w Coo rdinator

Kathy Sucharitakul, Akron Zoo
Stall-Exchange
Elandra Aum, Woodland Park Zoo
international Affairs Coordinators - Melba Shields
and Pam McDougall,

Exhibit-Design Form

Diane Forsyth, Akron Zoo

AAZILJLiaisfln to AA Z PA / IZE

Brandy Pound, San Francisco Zoo

Keeper Accommodations List

Oliver Claffey, Metro Toronto Zoo
Keeper Training Videotape
Wayne Buchanan, Woodland Park Zoo
Ke.epe.r_.Traimag-.Mater.i.aIS-I.d£Jitifieation

Rosemary Jalink, Mill Mountain Zoo

Zoo .K-e. ep ^J H .usb-an.dry Fundamentals, Book

Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo

Keeper ...Education Committee

Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo
Research/Grants Committee

Kaci Thompson, NZP
Public Educati o n Co mmit tee

Ellen Bradfield, Zoo Atlanta
AA ZK H i sto r y Commit tee

Art Goodrich, San Diego Zoo
, National Zoo (east)

Calgary Zoo (west)

Animal Data Transfer Form

Bemie Feldman, Burnet Park Zoo
Membership Directory

National HQ Staff
Diet Notebook
Susan Bunn, Minnesota Zoo
Biolog ical Vaiues/Gestation

Greater S. F. Bay Area Chapter
Li brary R esource s

Kaci Thompson, NZP

Infant Development Notebook

Steven Wing, Milwaukee Zoo

CO-DIRECTORS REGIONAL... COORDINATORS
States East of the Mississipp i - Diane Krug, White Oak Plantation, Yulee, FL
States West of Mississipp i - Debbera Stecher, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA

Individual Regional Coordinators and the states they oversee are listed elsewhere in each issue of AKF.

This month's cover features the western meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta) drawn by
Elayne Barclay, a keeper in the feline building and the nursery at Washington Park Zoo
in Portland, OR. Explorers Lewis and Clark first noticed the differences between this

greatly in song. When Audubon rediscovered the Western Meadowlark in 1843, the
scientific name he gave it poked fun at the long time between sightings: it means
"neglected meadowlark". This species is found in prairie, meadow and open area
habitats throughout the western and southwestern U.S. Thanks, Elayne!

SCOOPS

AND

SCUTTLEBUTT

Conference *87 ..Another GREAT AAZK Gathering:

A hearty congratulations to the Milwaukee County Zoo AAZK Chapter for putting on
another great AAZK National Conference. Conference '87 now holds a record for the
most delegates in attendance -220. These delegates represented over 70 zoos, aquariums
and other animal care facilities. The Conference also took on an international flavor
with delegates or guests attending from Canada, Australia, Japan, India and Central
America. Delegates were not only treated to some very fine Milwaukee hospitality, but
also excellent paper sessions, zoo and museum/conservatory tours, and a very special
"look back" at AAZK's first 20 years at the Birthday Party. The Zoolympics, despite the
autumn chill in the air, provided a special opportunity for fun and frolic with a
competitive edge. Special thanks to Steven M. Wing, Carol J. Boyd and all those
involved at the Milwaukee County Zoo for putting on a super conference.

A tte n tion Al l Zqq,§ Offerin g K AI,

All zoos which offer KAL (Keeper Accommodations) are asked to please send the name of
their current KAL contact person to Oliver Claffey at Metro Toronto Zoo, Box 280,
Westhill, Ontario, Canada M1E 4R5. It seems that a number of facilities named a KAL
contact person, sent this information to Ollie, then when he passed the contact person's
name on to a traveling keeper, it was discovered that that KAL contact was no longer at
that zoo. The KAL offers a great opportunity for all keepers to not only cut their
accommodations expenses when traveling, but a unique opportunity to get to know their
colleagues as they travel. If you or someone at your facility can provide accommodations
for a traveling keeper and you are not currently listed with the KAL, please let Ollie
know. The KAL, now in its seventh year, currently lists 60 contacts in 30 States and 4
Provinces, with two in Australia, one in Holland and one in Italy.

AAZK Materials Available for Those Attending Conferences

The Board of Directors would like to make the membership aware that materials
concerning AAZK (membership brochures, career brochures, accessory/publication
order forms, sample copies of publications, etc) are available from National
Headquarters for those who will be attending any conferences at which they would like to
represent the Association. This does not mean that you would be obligated to make a
formal presentation on behalf of the Association, but if you would like to spread the word
about AAZK, having these materials with you may make the task easier. Let National
HQ know if we can assist you.

Coming Events

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.

Contraception in Wildlife

November 13-14, 1987 Philadelphia, PA

For more information contact: Priscilla Cohn, PNC, Inc., 1518 Willowbrook Lane, Villanova,
PA 19085.

The 7th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals

December 5-9, 1987 Miami, FI

To be held at the University of Miami; sponsored by the Society for Marine Mammalogy. For
more information contact: Dr. Daniel Odell, Conference Committee Chairman, BLR-RSMAS,
University of Miami, 4600 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149-1098.

The 7th Annual Dr. Scholl Conference on

The Nutrition pf Captive Wild Animals

December 11-12, 1987 Chicago, IL

To be held at Lincoln Park Zoo, the conference will emphasize the personnel and other
resources involved in setting up a zoo nutritional program. For registration information please
contact: Thomas Meehan, DVM, Staff Veterinarian, Lincoln Park Zoological Gardens, 2200
N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL 60614.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN)

February 1-10, 1988 San Jose, Costa Rica

For more information contact: General Assembly Office, IUCN, Avenue du Mont-Blanc, CH-
1196 Gland, Switzerland,

The 1988 Crane Workshop

February 23-25, 1988 Central Florida

For more information contact: James Lewis, USFWS, P.O. Box 1306, Albuquerque, NM 87103.

First International Wildlife Ranching Symposium

May 16-21, 1988 La Cruces, NM

Symposium considering the conservation and economic impacts of wildlife ranching. For more
information contact: Raul Valdez, Professor Wildlife Science, College of Agriculture and
Home Economics, Dept, of Fishery and Wildlife Sciences, P.O. Box 30003, Campus Box 4901,
Las Cruces, NM 88003-003 (505) 646-1544.

330

Births & Hatchings

Columbus Zoo The Columbus Zoo AAZK Chapter reports the following births and

hatchings for July through September 1987. On 14 Sept., the zoo witnessed the long-
awaited birth of a 1.0 Reticulated giraffe. The infant is healthy and the mother, 16-year-
old "Noinu", is displaying excellent maternal care. The labor process lasted about two
and a half hours; the baby was standing within 38 minutes of birth and was nursing
within 45 minutes. This is Noinu's sixth offspring. Her first two calves DNS and the
third had to be hand-raised, but she raised the last two successfully on her own, as she is
doing now. The last three calves were sired by "Drew", our eight-year-old breeding bull.
An interesting aside is this baby was born on the exact date as his four-year-old sister.

Our prolific cheetah collection continues to enjoy breeding success. On 11 August, the
female "Stinky" had 1.3 kittens (1.2 DNS). The sire was "Duey", who is also the father of
this year's two previous litters. Other notable mammal births include 0.2 greater kudu
calves. For one female, this represents a first-time birth; the second mother, "Jala", had
a stillborn calf last year. Jala, who is normally very tractable around humans, is a very
protective mother. On several occasions she has charged people who have come too near
her calf, something our other two kudu mothers have never done.

The Bird Dept, hatched out 0.0.2 black-necked swans. Finally, the Reptile Dept,
continues its tradition of outstanding productivity. Hatchings here include: 30 Chiapas
giant musk turtles, 5 Mexican giant musk turtles, 2 Scorpion mud turtles, 3 Red-cheeked
mud turtles, 4 Ceylon hill turtles, 8 Ornate cantils, 10 Japanese ratsnakes, 12 Chinese
keeled ratsnakes, 10 Everglades ratsnakes, 10 Beauty snakes, 3 Central American
milksnakes, 3 False water cobras, 14 Malay spitting cobras, 4 Red spitting cobras, and 5
Leopard geckos. Last, but certainly not least, the Amphibian Building hatched out 1000+
Littoria infrafrebatas . --submitted by Carl Gyarmaty, Secretary, Columbus Zoo AAZK.

The Bronx Zoo The Bronx Zoo Chapter reports the following endangered or otherwise

notable births and hatchings for the month of September 1987. The Mammalogy Dept,
announces the following births. On 18 Sept., 0.0.1 Pen-tailed bettong (Bettongia
vencillata ) made its first appearance out of the pouch. This species of bettong is
considered endangered and it has been given a CITES I designation. On the 6th and on
the 25th, Silvered leaf monkeys (Presbvtis cristalus ) were born. This brings the number
of births to thirteen for this troop. All but one of the adult females have given birth to two
offspring. On the 6th, after a gestation of five months, 0.0.1 Large Malayan mouse deer
( Trasulus nap u ) was born. This species of chevrotain inhabits tropical rainforests in
southeast Asia and its status is indeterminate. 0.0.1 Eld's deer (Cervus eldithamin ) was
born during the month. Eld’s deer are endangered and they have been given a CITES I
designation. The Bronx Zoo is one of the few parks with an established breeding program
for this species.

The Ornithology Dept, proudly announces several notable hatchings for the month. First,
on 4 Sept., 0.0.2 Banded pittas ( Pitta guaiana ) hatched. These highly insectivorous birds
are shy and require a degree of privacy to encourage nest building. They have an
incubation period of 18 days and take about three weeks to fledge. On the 19th, 0.0.1
European hoopoe ( Upupa epops ) hatched. The incubation period for hoopoes is 18 days with
fledging about 25 days later. This chick was pulled for hand-rearing. Last, but not least,
0.0.1 Mauritius pink pigeon (Colurnha mayeri ) hatched on 30 Sept. The pink pigeon has
been given a CITES III designation.

331

Births and Hatchings. Continued

The Herpetology Dept, had significant hatchings for two species during September. On
the 9th, 0.0.1 Coahuilan box turtle (Terrapene coahuila ) hatched, two more hatchlings
emerged on the 17th. Coahuilans are endangered and they have been given a CITES I
designation. The Chinese alligator has become a symbol of the Bronx Zoo's commitment
to endangered crocodilian propagation. The hatching of 0.0.12 Chinese alligators
( Alligator sinensis ), on the 18th was a continuation of that commitment. This species is
endangered and it has been given a CITES I designation, --submitted, by Mark L.
Hofling, Corresponding Secretary, Bronx Zoo Chapter AAZK.

Milwaukee County Zoo On 2 December 1986, seven Bonobo arrived from the

Wassenaar Zoo in Wassenaar, Holland. After an extended quarantine period, the troop
went on public display. Shortly thereafter, keepers began noticing changes with one adult
female; changes which lead them to believe that a birth was pending. Volunteers and
staff alike watched the female for signs of labor. On 18 May, 1987, keepers discovered the
female had given birth overnight to a stillborn female infant.

Last summer (1986) the camel barn was the location for our first camel birth. This
summer we had a second camel birth on 12 June. The calf, a male, joins Gobi, Katie,
Jewel, and Carol. All five are worked into an educational program, Animals in Action.
This is a program in which the keepers talk with the public and explain their work and
answer questions about the animals in their care, --submitted by Carol J. Boyd,
Corresponding Secretary, Milwaukee AAZK Chapter.

Zoo Atlanta Births and hatchings for Zoo Atlanta from 15 August to 2 October 1987

include: 2.2 Vietnamese pot bellied pigs (a first for Zoo Atlanta); 0.0.23 Eyelash viper and
0.0.4 Rainbow boas. Acquisitions included 1.0 Senegal bushbaby and 0.1 Leviallanto
(crested) barbet. The staff is anxiously awaiting the acquisition of 3.11 Sumatran
orangutans in February 1988. --Tim Kurkowski, Chapter Liaison, Zoo Atlanta AAZK
Chapter.

Busch Gardens/Tampa Congratulations to Busch Gardens on yet another birth of the

endangered Scimitar-horned oryx. 1.0 was born in September 1987. Also reported were
the births of 0.1 Grant's gazelle, 1.0 Adra gazelle, 0.0.1 Guinea (western) baboon and 0.1
Greater kudu.

1988 AAZPA Regional Conferences

AAZPA Western Regional - 6-8 March, 1988 - for more information contact: Charles Farwell,
Aquarist/ Curator, Monterey Bay Aquarium, 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940 (408) 649-
6466.

AAZPA Southern Regional -20-22 March, 1988 - for more information contact: Al Fontana,
Assistant Director, or Gordon Hubbell, DVM, Miami Metrozoo, 12400 S. W. 152 St., Miami, FL
33177 (305) 251-0401.

AAZPA Central Regional - 10-12 April, 1988 - For more information contact: Michael LaRue,
Assistant Director, Topeka Zoological Park, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, Ks 66606 (913) 272-5821.
(This is a great opportunity to visit AAZK National Headquarters!)

AAZPA Great Lakes Regional - 24-27 April, 1988 - for more information contact: David
Lonsdale, Assistant Director, John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 South Lake Shore Drive,
Chicago, IL 60605 (312) 939-2426.

AAZPA Northeastern Regional - 1-3 May, 1988 - for more information contact: Peter
Crowcroft, Director, Salisbury Zoological Park, Box 3163, Salisbury, MD 21801 (301) 548-3188.

332

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Watch this space for what's new for zoos!

‘Public ‘Education Committee

Zookeepers In Public Education Survey

Submitted By
Jay Jason

AAZK Public Education Committee

A survey designed to compile information about how Keepers are involved in public
education programming was sent to 211 zoos, aquariums, nature parks and museums
maintaining live animal collections in North America. One hundred-fifty-one (151)
facilities replied from 41 states, the District of Columbia and Canada. This article
presents a brief summary of the results. It only reflects numerical responses; many
informative comments received are not included in this summary.

A wide variety of facilities responded to the survey as evidenced by the number of
education staff and the range in operating budget. It seems as though facilities with few
education staff and smaller operating budgets tend to rely on Keeper participation to a
greater extent. Some facilities consider their Keepers as educators and involve them
regularly in educational programs. Although most facilities recruit Keepers for such
programs on a volunteer basis, about 33% of those who responded stated that Keepers are
assigned to these duties. A number of facilities (about 25%) pay honoraria or stipends for
Keeper participation in formal educational programming.

Educational programming was separated into three categories: Off-site, On-site, and
Educational Publicity/Graphics. Respondents indicated if the program in question
involved Keepers to any extent. Off-site school visits, On-site animal behavior shows,
animal contact areas, Keeper training, Docent training, and TV/Radio appearances were
among the more common types of programming in which Keepers were involved.

Although the generalization may be made on the basis of the survey, that larger facilities
involve Keepers less in their public education efforts than do smaller facilities, Pegi
Harvey, Education Director at the San Diego Zoo summed up the value of Keeper
participation nicely by commenting:

"We greatly appreciate the support lent to our education programs by our fine Keeper staff.
They are the component that makes our programs meaningful and real. ...it would be a
great loss to conservation education if we weren't able to use them! I hope this survey
brings them some of the recognition they deserve."

On the following page is a sample of the survey sheet and the results discovered from the
151 Institutions responding.

(REg VL TS l

Name of Institution: 151 Institutions replied from 41 States, the District of Columbia and
Canada

1. Number of Education Staff: Q-1 fi F ull Time 0-17 P art Time

2. Institution Operating Budget: $1 0 OOP - $20 000 OOP

3. Number of Education Volunteers/Docents: Q-fiOtL

334

AAZK Educational Program Survey

4. Number of paid Keepers used for planned educational programs: Hfifl

5. Number of Keepers who volunteer for educational programs outside regular pay time:

(H56

6. Are Keepers paid honoraria/stipends for their work in formal programming?

13 Yes 84 N o 23 Sometimes

7. How are Keepers recruited for formal educational programs?

Volunteer? _93 What percent of instances? 0-1 00 %

Assigned? 51 What percent of instances? 0-100%

DIRECTIONS : Place an ’X" by each program you have at your institution.

Place a double 'XX" by each program in which Keepers participate.

QFF-glTE PROGRAMS

Classes X=54, XX-35
Curriculum Development X=55, XX=9
Mobile/Traveling Zoo X=68, XX=19
Reading Library X-24, XX- 7
School Visits X=83, XX=39
Speakers Bureau X- 67, XX- 32

EDUCATIONAL PUBLICITY/GRAPHICS

Brochures X=1 07, XX=11
Displays (nonliving) X=85, XX=19
Interpretive Labels X=69, XX=35
Guide Books/Publications X=69, XX=14
TV/Radio Production X=40, XX=38

QN-gITE PROGRAM S

AAZK Chapter Meetings XX=41
Animal Behavior Shows X=28, XX= 58
Boy/Girl Scouts X=70, XX=25
Animal Contact Area X=52, XX=42
School Classes X=38, XX-30
Preschool X=80, XX- 2 2
Lower Elementary X=82, XX=30
Upper Elementary X=80, XX= 25
Secondary X=79, XX=20
College/Univ. X=59, XX=23
Clubs X=58, XX=18
Disabled Classes X=47, XX=12
Docent Training X=52, XX=55

Educational Internships X=44, XX=21
Information Booth X=57, XX=4
Keeper Training X=35, XX=42
Library Services X=68, XX=13
Nature Trails X=22, XX=2
School Tours X=94, XX=21
Speakers Bureau X=50, XX=21
Summer Day Camp X=48, XX=22
TV/Radio Appearances X=55, XX- 4 9
Train/Tram Tours X=27, XX- 5
Teacher Orientation X=68, XX=10
Teacher Workshops X=61, XX=17
Other: Activities in which Keepers

participate — Adult Education,
Overnight Camps, Junior Keepers,
4-H Clubs, Fundraising, Discovery
Center, Worldwide Tours

335

CHAPTER

NEWS

High Plains AAZK Chapter

New officers for the High Plains Chapter
of AAZK, located at the Lee Richardson
Zoo in Garden City, KS are:

President Rick Jones

Sec/Treas Elaine Childers

Chapter Liaison Kathy Sexson

They were elected at the 6 October 1987
monthly meeting.

--Kathy Sexson, Chapter Liaison

Greater Cleveland AAZK Chapter

Cleveland has formed an AAZK Chapter.
In July the Keepers of the Cleveland
Metroparks Zoo came together to form the
Greater Cleveland Area Chapter. Newly
elected officers are:

President Scott Wright

Vice Pres Jeff Polcen

Sec/Chapter Liaison Nancy Wright

Treasurer Mary Jo (Missy) Krock

--Nancy Wright, Secretary

Congratulations to the Cleveland AAZK
Chapter on your formation and welcome
to AAZK National!

Kansas City AAZK Chanter

In conjunction with Zookeeper's Day at
the Kansas City Zoo, the Kansas City Zoo
AAZK Chapter made a commitment to
help raise funds to assist in rhino
conservation on the Ngare Sergoi Rhino
Sanctuary in Lewa Downs, Kenya. The
Chapter held a "Bowling for Rhinos"
event in which sponsors pledged a
specified amount of money for the
number of pins their sponsored bowler
knocked down during the best of two
games.

The event was very successful and at the
National AAZK Conference in
Milwaukee, a check for over $1400 was
turned over to Columbus Zoo keeper Andy
Lodge who heads up U.S. fundraising
efforts for the Ngare Sergoi Sanctuary

project. A hearty congratulations to all
the Kansas City Zookeepers for their
efforts on behalf of this important
conservation effort!

—Ed.

Zoo Atlanta AAZK Chanter

Zoo Atlanta AAZK’s most recent speakers
at our monthly seminars in biology
include Mary Mure, Zoo Atlanta
veterinary technician, and Willie
Theisan, lead keeper of Mzima Springs.
Mary gave a slide presentation on her
recent three-week trip to Kenya. Willie
gave a presentation on training
elephants.

Keeper Forum speakers have included
respected field researcher Cynthia Moss;
Dr. Michael Boer who lectured on Drills;
and Vaughn Langman who presented a
talk on rhinos.

Zoo Atlanta AAZK has been very busy
with several fundraisers. We just
produced a new elephant print T-shirt
and jacket featuring artwork by a keeper
which was taken from a photograph of our
three baby elephants - "Starlet O’Hara,
"Victoria" and "Zambezi". We are
working on producing a zoo coloring book
and creating a new Chapter logo. We are
considering a Haunted House for
Halloween and a recycling program with
newspapers and aluminum cans.

Several Zoo Atlanta AAZK Keepers also
spoke at a "Conservation Weekend" held
at the Zoo on 23-24 October. And finally,
Zoo Atlanta staff is proud to announce that
as of 1 October, 1987, the Zoo is an
accredited member of AAZPA!

--Tim Kurkowski, Chapter

Liaison

(Editor's note: Congratulations from
National AAZK to the Zoo Atlanta Chapter
on their receipt of a special Conservation
Award from the World Wildlife Fund.
This award, presented for the first time
this year, is designed to recognize the
conservation efforts of Zoos and zoo staff.
Zoo Atlanta has been very active in
raising funds for WWF's conservation
programs. We are very pleased and
proud to have Zoo Atlanta AAZK
recognized for all their hard work!)

ft

336

Establishment of a Social Group
in Lion-Tailed Macaques

( Macaca Silertus)

By

S. Paulraj and S. Subbarayalu Naidu
Arignar Anna Zoological Park
Madras, India

There are problems of fighting and incompatibility in keeping together several animals
of different age groups of a monkey species which are obtained from different social
groups. Our experiences in establishing a social group of lion-tailed macaques may be
useful to others in making such an attempt. We formed a social group composed of five
animals (2.3) of Lion-tailed macaques, obtained from five different places. This group
was let into an open, wet-moat island.

Two major factors, the sex and the age or size of the animal, were considered for this trial
of establishing a social group. To begin with, two sub-adult, similar-sized animals (1.1)
were left together in a spacious unit. They adjusted to each other immediately without any
problems. After a month, another young male was introduced with these two. Because this
male was very young, the sub-adult female took care of it immediately. This young male
was very much attached to this female as if they were mother and baby.

After six months, another sub-adult male was introduced with this three-member group.
This individual also mixed in well with the others without any problems. Then this four-
member group was transferred from the original exhibit to an open, wet-moat enclosure.
This young and sub-adult group (2.2) adjusted well to the new island enclosure.

Three months later, an attempt to introduce another sub-adult female was made. Being on
the island, the introduction trial of this animal was different. The new female was put in
an iron mesh cage and was kept on the island while the behavior of the other four members
was observed. They often came towards the cage, observed and touched it. As there was no
fighting behavior noticed between the group animals and the new member inside the cage,
the door was opened and the fifth new member was released into the group after a day.
After an initial chase and run, the new member was accepted without any serious fight.
Soon this five-member group (2.3) established a social group. Social behaviors such as
male dominance, pseudo mounting, submission to the elder male, etc. were observed.

After a year, another adult female was introduced with this group in a similar method, but
with very different results. All five members of the group came near the cage and started
fighting with the new member in the cage. They inserted their hands inside the cage and
pulled at it ferociously. However, the new member could manage to escape these unwanted
attentions inside the spacious cage. Now and then the five-member group approached the
cage, showed their aggressive behavior towards the new member and went away. This
new member was kept in the cage on the island for three days so as to make it familiar to
the established group members. However, the group members never showed any sympathy
towards the new female nor acceptance of her as a group member. Inspite of this, we
opened the cage door and released the new member into the old group. Immediately she
was chased by the youngest member of the group and there was fighting between the two.
Then the male and other members came to the rescue of the youngster and all of them
started chasing and fighting with the newly introduced female. In order to escape, the new
member got into the water moat and struggled to escape. It was soon rescued by our keeper
before any serious injury could occur. After that incident, no further trial was made to
introduce this new member. The five-member social group was left as it was.

337

Establishment of a Social Group of Lion-tailed Macaques.

Cont’d

Our experiences in the establishment of a social group of Lion-tailed macaques revealed
the following facts:

1. Formation of a social group should be started with sub-adult or young animals.

2. Young members are easily accepted by sub-adult group members, especially

by the female members.

3. Adult males or females should not be introduced in a sub-adult group or in a

mixed group of adults, sub-adults and young ones.

4. Presence of an adult female with a lonely sub-adult male is not advisable.

Although they adjusted to each other at the time of estrus, the adult female tends
to fight with the sub-adult male, as the latter is not sufficiently matured to fulfill
the sexual needs of the female in estrus. One such incident occurred in our Lion-
tailed macaques when a sub-adult male was severely injured by an adult
female.

A dfflQ wkdgment;

The authors wish to express their sincere thanks to Shri S. John Joseph, Chief Conservator
of Forest for his encouragements.

338

Staff Exchange

Everything I Know, and Then Some

By

Elandra Awn

Staff Exchange Team Coordinator
Woodland Park Zoological Gardens
Seattle, WA

mmom oaoN.

It's always seemed to me that exchanging workers,
and sending out receiving staff on working visits,
are primo ways to disseminate knowledge in captive
wildlife husbandry. Too often, it's not what we don't
know that hurts us; it’s what w e don't know W<? d on' t
know. Conversely, some keepers have "of course"
ways of working, and are unaware that their
methods and tools, and even their approaches, may
be worth mentioning to keepers at other animal
facilities.

I have likewise noticed many people’s reluctance to write for publication. While I can
understand this, there nevertheless remains a gap in knowledge amongst keepers and
other zoological staff whenever a useful piece of information goes unpublished.

From the start I envisioned exchanges and working visits as a way of helping to
overcome those deficiencies, and to help foster and enhance a sense of community among
staff at captive wildlife facilities.

In this article, I'll go over the principles behind exchanges and working visits; give an
idea of conditions of participation; outline some intelligent steps to take in setting up an
exchange; and list the questions people ask most often, along with an answer to each.

I'll quote the program's source documents: "Ground of Being, Statement of Purpose, and
Goal", "Suggestions for Conducting a Staff Exchange/Working Visit Program",
"Participant Responsibility In an Exchange or Working Visit", and "Writing an
Exchange Proposal". I will elucidate some of the points raised in these documents.

The source documents, without comment, are available free upon request to me at
Woodland Park Zoo, 5500 Phinney Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103.

^EDUCATION

GRO.UN P O F BEI NG .

Exchanging staff among institutions devoted to captive wildlife management is a
valuable on-the-job training tool. Participants, and their colleagues and zoos, benefit
from new and expanded knowledge of tools and techniques in the art; insight into others'
management and operational systems and philosophies; exposure to a wider variety of
species' natural history and husbandry than is available at a single institution; broaden
horizons; personal contacts for future dealings; renewed enthusiasm and improved
attitudes; and an awareness of community among us who are responsible for the well-
being and the survival of the creatures in our care.

339

Staff Exchange ...Everything I Know and Then Some. Continued
S TA TEME NX .Q E PU R P OSE

The purpose of the AAZK Staff Exchange Team/Visiting Keeper Program is to create a
world-wide network of captive wildlife institutions that exchange staff regularly as a
standard, on-the-job training tool. To support that purpose, this team is committed to
providing whatever assistance it can to institutions wishing to participate, and to all staff
employed there.

The team recognizes that individuals must work with their administrations in
producing single exchanges and exchange programs, and undertakes to encourage such
teamwork. Realizing that each institution's and each participant's needs are unique,
this team acts as a facilitator, and not as a governing body. We provide information and
suggestions, but pledge not to devise or apply our own rules.

GOAL

The Staff Exchange Team intends to have this world-wide network of exchanges
established, and exchanging accepted as a standard training tool by the end of 1990.

SUGGESTIONS FOR CONDUCTING A STAFF EXCHANGE/

WORKING VISIT PROGRAM

This section is mainly aimed at administrators, who set policies and make decisions
about who does and doesn't get to go on an exchange or working visit.

Each institution must set its own policy and procedures, of course. These suggestions
seem to be intelligent principles under which to implement this program:

Develop criteria for eligibility.

Establish a procedure for obtaining administrative approval.

Have a contact person, to be familiar with program details, handle inquiries, and
facilitate exchanges and visits.

Articulate conditions of satisfaction, such as oral or written report by participant,
or evaluation (s) by participant's supervisor(s) at host institution.

Set policy for logistics, e.g. length of exchange or visit, how wages and benefits
will be handled,, any health testing required, and whether financial
assistance will be available.

Add your institution's name to the Access List: keep information current; let us
know about exchanges and visits, and about policies, problems, and
solutions.

PARTICIPANTLRESPQNSIBILITY IN AN EXCHANGE OR WORKINGS!!

Now we're getting to the part you get to handle yourself, when you decide you want to
exchange with another facility.

I must stipulate that, should any of these statements of responsibility conflict with stated
policy at your own facility, your administration's decisions supersede these guidelines.

1. Initiate and follow through in producing your own exchange/visit. If you want to go
somewhere and learn something, it's up to you to do the work involved in setting up the
exchange or visit. The access list, compiled by this team, can help you find an institution
that seems likely to be able too help you reach your goal; but an institution’s absence from
the list should not be taken to mean or imply that that institution wilLnot participate.

340

Staff Exchange ...Everything I Know and Then Some. Continued

Decision makers at the place you want to go may have any number of valid reasons for
not including themselves on the access list. Go ahead and write any and all places you
think could help you; the worst they can do is say no.

2. Communicate fully with appropriate staff at the home and the host facilities. There
should be a designated contact person at each, through whom to work. It will be your
responsibility to keep all concerned persons informed of your progress in setting up your
exchange; of what's going on during the exchange; and of what results you
accomplished. Do not wait for people to prod you for reports; hand them in in a timely
fashion. Be clear what the standards are, and keep to those standards.

3. Have a cogent and valid purpose for participating, and stay with that purpose. Having
such a purpose will undoubtedly be a condition for participation at your institution.
Staying with that purpose while you are on the job at the place your visit doesn't mean you
can't have fun; me, I think exchange work is a gas! Party hardy after hours, but be on the
job during your work hours, the same as if you were at home.

4. Clearly understand and follow both institutions' policies for exchanges and working
visits. Each participant is responsible for making sure they comply with all conditions of
satisfaction. If you don't understand a requirement, ask. Keep asking until you're
clear. It's better to risk looking a little foolish than to scuttle your chances of getting the
exchange you want.

If for some reason you can't fulfill some requirement, find out about alternatives.
Complete as much as you can, and make an agreement to do the rest by a given date. Be
responsible for handling obstacles. In case of conflict between two facilities’ policies,
bring it to someone's attention and get it resolved promptly.

5. Be prepared to handle travel, accommodations, and personal expenses. Some
institutions offer on-grounds living quarters. Some institutions may have financial
assistance available. You may be able to get a grant for your work or have a local
business sponsor you.

Take advantage of opportunities offered by friends and acquaintances: Know people in
the travel business? Find out what they know (one woman I know got a round-trip ticket to
Europe for $100.00).

Don't forget the Keeper Accommodations List. Write to Oliver Claffey at the Metropolitan
Toronto Zoo, Ontario, for details of how to get KAL lodging, and the name of the contact
person in the city you intend to visit. Not all zoos have an accommodations list, but many
do.

6. If you run into difficulties, seek and find assistance. If normal channels are blocked,
try something or someone unusual. Ask around for information and aid. Solutions can
come from any source:

a. Your administrators should be willing to help you out, if they have approved

your proposal.

b. The exchange contact person at your and/or your prospective host's facility

may be able to help.

c. Other staff who've exchanged may have helpful hints.

d. Write to me.

7. Behave as an ambassador for your institution and for the program in general. This
program is widely accepted in North America, the United Kingdom, Australia, and some
other places; but in many cases, it's still on trial. Your professionalism will go a long
way toward assuring decision makers that exchanging is a good idea. People at the host
institution will form opinions about you, your zoo, and about exchanging, based on your
behavior.

341

Staff Exchange ...Everything I Know and Then Some. Continued

8. Fulfill requirements for reports, presentation, etc., at your home institution. It's wise
to understand this requirement clearly before setting out. You can then gather
information and rough out your presentation as you go, rather than having to try to
remember everything after it’s all over. Take a camera, tape recorder, or whatever else
you think will help you record things during your visit. Or make arrangements to have
such equipment supplied at your destination.

WRITING AN EXCHANGE PROPOSAL

Your proposal may be in the form of a letter or memorandum. It should be neatly typed,
with punctuation, spelling, grammar, and diction correct — in other words, professional
in appearance.

Check and see whether your administration has stated in what form to write an exchange
proposal.

If you are unsure about how skilled you are with written English, have someone proof-
read your proposal before submitting it. Having it proof-read is a good idea, in any case;
a fresh eye can catch goofs the writer will miss, from being too familiar with the writing.

Include:

-Your name and job title;

-Names and addresses of your work place and the facility at which you propose
to do your exchange or working visit;

-Length of proposed exchange or working visit;

-Your purpose in proposing the exchange: What do you want to learn or
accomplish? Why do you think you'll be able to get that done at the place
you’ve picked?;

-How you forsee this information or accomplishments enhancing your skills/
job performance;

-Other foreseeable benefits to your institution;

-Your intention to write up your results for publication or presentation, and
to fulfill other requirements stipulated by your administration;

-How you will handle expenses;

-The anticipated wage and benefit arrangement (if not articulated in your
administration's policy statement.

Who needs to know:

-Your immediate supervisor
-Personnel officer at your place of work
-Any others designated by your administration
-Contact person at your place of work

-Contact person at the institution you propose to visit; if there isn't one, then the
director or personnel officer there.

Send a copy of your proposal to each person, with any other material required. As with the
rest of this information, if anything written in this article disagrees with your
administration's stated policies or decisions, the latter supersedes anything written here.

QIIES3IQNS.MOST OFTEN ASKED ABOUT EXCHANGES AND WORKING VISITS

1. Does my zoo (aquarium, etc.) have to have an AAZK Chapter before I can do an
exchange? Do I have to be an AAZK member to qualify?

No. The program is for any staff member of a captive wildlife facility, who thinks they
and their place of work would benefit by an exchange. So you don't even have to be a
keeper to benefit from this program. However, since AAZK is so nice as to support and

342

Staff Exchange ...Everything I Know and Then Some. Continued

finance staff exchange, it wouldn't hurt for you to join. Membership would also expose
you to the variety of other services AAZK offers.

2. How long should an exchange or working visit be?

Barring individual facilities' policies, there are no rules about length. The longest
exchange of which I am aware was fifteen months; the shortest, two days. It depends,
partly on how long it will take you to fulfill your purpose, in your best judgment, and
partly on how long your own institution can spare you. If you go on your own time, of
course, the limit is on how much leave time you have.

3. Who pays for transportation? Housing?

The person on exchange is normally responsible for travel and living expenses, as stated
in the "Participant's Responsibility " section. There are several options:

a. Pay all expenses yourself. (On very long exchanges, you might trade houses
with the person with whom you exchange; on long working visits, you may want
to sublet your home, or move out and store your stuff for the duration, and find
new digs on your return.)

b. Find some grant money. Some employers have money to help defray costs of

special training and education. Other organizations might endow your work.
Maybe a local business will sponsor you.

c. Don't forget the Keeper Accommodations List. See the inside cover of Animal
Keepers' Forum for where to write for details on free or low-cost housing in a
city other than your own.

d. Use your network of associates to find out about cheap travel.

4. How are wages and benefits handled?

If you go on a working visit during your vacation time, you need to make sure that such
items as workman’s compensation extend to you, either through your place of
employment, or at the place you’re visiting.

On most exchanges, the worker continues to receive wages and benefits from their place
of permanent employment. Some institutions may have different policies. Any stated
policies that this team has received, from institutions on the access list, are quoted or
summarized in the "Comments" section on the list.

On some long-term exchanges, when the participant live in areas with widely divergent
costs of living, each participant may be hired temporarily by the facility they visit, for the
duration of the exchange.

5. Do other zoos have policies for their employees?

Some do; maybe all. Of those who have sent me any statements of policy, all require a
proposal that includes an approval goal for the exchange or working visit. Most require a
presentation of some sort, by their own, permanent employee upon their return from the
time away.

Other policies stipulated by one or more institutions include:

-Restriction on number of visiting workers sent or received, either at once, or
per unit-time (e.g. per year); or restriction to simultaneous or sequential,
one-for-one exchanges;

-Restriction to full-time, paid employees;

-Minimum tenure required;

-Liability disclaimer;

-Outline of how wages and benefits are arranged;

343

Staff Exchange ...Everything I Know and Then Some. Continued

-Exchange required with person in same area of expertise;

-Preference for exchanges during the slow season;

-Reciprocal lodging required;

-Maximum term of exchange or visit;

-Restriction to animal management staff, or to animal management and certain
other staff;

-Participant required to be responsible for own travel and living expenses;

-Recent TB test, certain immunization series, or both, required.

No single facility includes all the above in its policy statement; no single item is in all
institutions' policy statements. But this list should give you some idea of the kinds of
things to expect.

6. What do I have to do to qualify?

See the portion of this article entitled "Participant Responsibility in an Exchange or
Working Visit". Check with your own contact person or personnel officer for conditions
of qualification, and fulfill these. If your institution is on the access list, then the
information will be outlined there.

The access list provides a starting point. Do not, however, limit your inquiries to those
facilities on the list. There are many others out there; some may not be aware of the
opportunity to have themselves listed; of they may be willing to participate, but for their
own reasons, not wish to include themselves on the list. If you're interested, send an
inquiry.

If you zoo lacks an access list, or if you can't get hold of one, send to the Staff Exchange
Team/Visiting Keeper Program for one — and any other assistance we can lend.

One final note, especially for those who work at a facility that is not on the access list yet:
Maybe I haven't gotten to your place yet. If not, I will soon. If you're interested in the
program, you might ask your director or personnel officer whether they've received any
information. If they have, and are reluctant to be included, consider offering to be the
contact person. The work in not onerous; and sometimes, having someone willing to
take responsibility for that part of it, has been enough to persuade a director to get listed.

If you get to do an exchange or working visit, please let me know how it went; I'd love to
hear from you!

9

WILDLIFE REHABILITATION INTERNSHIPS ....available for Autumn and Winter at
Lifeline for Wildlife, Inc. Nationally recognized Wildlife Rehabilitation
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acres one hour north of New York City; new wildlife hospital under construction.
Responsibilities include all facets of daily care for patients. Guaranteed exposure to
intensive care, veterinary procedures & surgery, and releases. But the rest is hard dirty
work. 60 hour work work. 1-4 month commitment. Housing and utilities provided; no
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so all applicants must be energetic, hard-working, dedicated and compassionate.
Openings are also available for interns interested in Wildlife/Animal Rights
education. Exciting opportunity to work with Director, creating and implementing
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Betsy Lewis, Executive Director, Lifeline for Wildlife, Inc., Blanchard Road, Stony
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9

344

And How Hot Was It?

Submitted by Linda Sanders, Head Keeper
Greater Baton Rouge Zoo

The month of August was exceptionally hot at the Greater Baton Rouge Zoo. Afternoon
temperatures usually climbed into the nineties with humidity nearly the same level.

As the temperatures soared, the animals sought the shady spots in their exhibits. They lay
peacefully chewing cuds, napping, and contemplating their keepers who were sweating
over shovels, brooms, wheelbarrows, hoses and scrub brushes. Hay was hauled to the
racks; feed sacks were toted to troughs; dusty yards were picked up daily and cages were
hosed down and disinfected. Still the animals relaxed in the shade of trees, the coolness of
their dens, and the water of their pools. Then a thousand times a day, zoo visitors sought
out sweat-soaked, exhausted keepers and asked:

"HOW DO THE POOR ANIMALS STAND THE HEAT???"

Polar bears at the Greater Baton Rouge Zoo
play with a "Fishsicle".. .blocks of ice frozen
with fish embedded in the ice. (Photo by
Linda Sanders)

345

U.S. Postal Service

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation

( Requirement of Section 488.31 Domestic Mail Manual )

Title of Publication: Animal Keepers' Forum
Publication Number: 425390
Date of Filing: 22 September 1987

Frequency of Issue: Monthly. Number of issues published annually =12
Annual Subscription Price = $20.00

Location of Known Office of Publication: Topeka Zoological Park, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka,

Shawnee County, Kansas, 66606.

Publisher: American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., Topeka Zoological Park, 635 Gage Blvd.,

Topeka, Shawnee County, Kansas 66606.

Executive Editor: Alice Miser, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, Shawnee County, KS 66606.

Managing Editor: Susan D. Chan, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, Shawnee County, KS 66606.

Owner: American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc., Topeka Zoological Park, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka,
Shawnee County, KS 66606.

The purpose, function and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for Federal Income
Tax purposes has not changed during the preceding 12 months.

EXTENT AND NATURE OF CIRCULATION

Average No. Copies
Each Issue during
Preceding 12 months

Actual No. Copies
of Single Issues
Published nearest
to Filing Date

Total Number

Copies Printed

2198

2300

Mail Subscriptions

2099

2172

Copies Not Distributed
(office use, left-over)

47

62

Exchange, Complimentary

Copies distributed

52

66

TOTAL

2198

2300

I certify that the statements made
by me above are correct and complete.

Signature

and Title of Editor

cvt-^ Ol •

Managing

Editor

346

SIZING UP GRAPHICS

By

Mike Seidman, Keeper
Phoenix Zoo, Phoenix, AZ

No matter what their quality, zoo graphics are notorious for remaining unread. Many
variations have been tried in vain and much controversy generated regarding their optimum
length, content and format. Should complex truths be sacrificed for easy comprehension or
should more substantial topics be presented, aimed at those who may read them? Are
graphics mere obligatory tokens, serving primarily to identify animals, a motley collection of
separate facts about discrete animals? Is it possible (and desirable) for graphics to serve an
internal function in the zoo as a whole, relating all the animals found there? Is it possible to
stimulate more people to read them?

Most people come to the zoo, not motivated by an intellectual desire to learn, but simply for
recreation, to look at animals in a human-oriented setting. It is a direct sensory experience,
mediated only by semiconscious past associations with zoos and zoo animals. A sign at an
animal exhibit receives as much attention as a book on pugilism would at a boxing match~the
main attraction monopolizes all the senses.

In addition, zoo visitors are impatient to see all the animals. Spurred on by the perennial
'next exhibit’, they move through the zoo at a steady pace, rarely pausing except for
refreshments. Reading graphics breaks this rhythm, disrupts the flow of movement. Few
patrons read more than identifying signs before moving on to the next exhibit.

In Defense of Graphics

Since the zoo experience is primarily sensory (looking at animals, listening to people) most
learning that occurs is below the surface of awareness, taken in by the senses but not registered
in consciousness. While people are looking, listening and (perhaps) reading, associations are
forming in their minds, unconsciously relating the animals to their immediate surroundings—
exhibits, landscaping, graphics, snack bars, trains, and the behavior of other people. These
subliminal impressions color the viewer’s idea of the animal, making the zoo as a whole an
important learning experience, either reinforcing traditional biases towards animals, or, in
the interests of conservation, working to overcome them. (Unfortunately, many zoos act as if
this kind of learning does not occur, leaving it to chance whether the effects of an exhibit—
and the general tone of the zoo— is positive or negative.)

If most learning at the zoo is subliminal, and few people read graphics in any case, why
should zoos attempt to teach overtly? Why not simply identify animals and leave it at
that?

Most people approach an exhibit at the zoo, look at the animal in it and... have nothing to
say. Its appearance is a puzzle to them which they lack the tools to decipher. The only
words and associations they have to draw on are distorted emotional or cultural stereotypes,
and any behavior witnessed is invariably humanized and misunderstood. The list of words
applied to the animal is quickly exhausted: it is either cute, dangerous, pretty or ugly. Very
soon they can find nothing more to say and depart, repeating the process at the next exhibit.

The goal of zoos should be to break these deeply entrenched stereotypes, subliminally
through creating a context of respectful associations with animals and overtly through the
use of quality interpretive graphics. People need to be re-taught how to look at animals.

347

SIZING UP GRAPHICS. Continued

their gaze directed at salient features of an animal's appearance and behavior, a structure
provided for their perceptions, one that will replace (or at least temper) the false images in
their minds with knowledge purged of uninformed emotional associations.

At their best, graphics can function to reinforce and enhance the beneficial subliminal effects
of a good naturalistic exhibit; by providing a vocabulary for understanding the features of
animals, they can make explicit what has been unconsciously absorbed there, furnishing a
conscious, new perspective towards animals that can be communicated to others. It cannot be
stressed enough, however, that only a good exhibit, i.e. one appropriate to the animal
displayed, make writing good quality graphics worthwhile. What the viewer sees must be
worth interpreting, and stimulating enough so he or she wants to know more. On the other
hand, a good exhibit without corresponding good interpretive graphics is almost useless as an
educational tool.

In a museum, an artifact may stand on its own aesthetically, or perhaps its function may be
grasped intuitively; but real understanding means connecting the object to the culture that
produced it. This requires an explanatory text. And so it is in some zoos: individual species of
animals can only be understood as part of a community. If exhibits attempt to illustrate some
of the connections between animals and their habitats, graphics can then explain what is
seen. Working together they can subtly mold the zoogoer's attitudes and increase his/her
knowledge.

Every zoo animal serves, for better or worse, as a representative of its species, and of wild
animals in general. Its captivity in an unnatural setting is justifiable only if that animal is
being used to save its conspecifics in the wild. But an animal is mute, unable to explain why it
is what it is; we must speak for it or its presence at the zoo is meaningless. As in a museum,
many, perhaps most, people will skip the written text; they have not come to learn. But if we
omit the proper explanation, we abandon our educational obligations. Considering the
urgency of extinction, methods of stimulating public interest in understanding animals must
continually be sought.

Making Graphics Work

In addition to the actual content of informational signs, many other factors, such as design and
placement, contribute to their appeal or lack of it. Account must always be taken of the
distractions at zoos (exotic animals and crowds of people) that make concentration on the
written word difficult. Potential readers must not feel rushed, uncomfortable or over-
stimulated. To discourage crowding and reduce competition with the animals, graphics need
to be located outside the mainstream of traffic, in a distinctive setting of their own,
aesthetically attractive and relatively quiet.

Some information, especially of a more general nature, might work better between exhibits, in
areas landscaped appropriately to the animals or habitat being explained. Away from an
exhibit, graphics will lose some immediacy and ease of reference; on the other hand, it would
make meaningful use of the space between exhibits and allow those who are interested to
read without feeling rushed.

Graphics in unlikely locations might, from their surprise value, become more appealing.
Information about animal diets, for example, placed in and around snack bars, could use
human dietary requirements as a comparison. (Snack bars are ofte of the few places people
linger at the zoo, and everybody enjoys reading while eating!).

Even if, through good design and proper placement, people begin to approach explanatory
signs, there is still the problem of maintaining interest in the information presented. One
possible tool is the consistent use of a theme or themes applied to all the animals at the zoo,
general relations or patterns that make the myriad variations among animals easier for
people to grasp.

348

SIZING UP GRAPHICS. Continued

The Ecology of Graphics

What kind of material should be selected for public presentation from the wealth of
information about animals? I would like to suggest the following general guideline: what
information about animals do people need to know if they are to become more conservation-
minded? Can this material be presented clearly and simply, making maximum sense with a
minimum of words?

To orient people towards conservation requires, among other things, a change of focus
regarding animals, whereby we cease putting emphasis on individual species (no matter how
fascinating to us) and re-focus our gaze at the community level, stressing not the attributes of
individual animals, but the varied relations that bind individual species to each other, the
connection among them that makes habitats work. Animals in a habitat are, in varying
degrees, inter-dependent; their appearance and behavior has been molded over evolutionary
time by the stresses of the environment and by habitual interactions with other organisms
living there—plants, competitors, predators, parasites, decomposers, etc. This inter-
penetration of separate lives is obscured by traditional zoo graphics, which tend to treat
each animal as if it lived in an ecological vacuum. Instead, zoos could be displaying their
animals to illustrate how a particular size, shape and natural behavior represent an
organism’s solution to the challenge of survival and reproduction in a specific time and place.
This is what people need to see when they look at an animal.

Just as habitats are more than an arbitrary assemblage of separate animals, the information
about animals should be more than a collection of unrelated facts. Individual bits of
information may be connected through the patterns of relationships between animals and
their environment that ecologists have slowly been working out. What are the pressures of
the habitat that cause animals to look and behave as they do? What effect does an animal
have on the habitat it lives in? Such questions inevitably lead to greater understanding of
both the meaning of and need for conservation.

From the point of view of public appeal, discrete facts make maximum sense, and more
intellectually satisfying and more easily assimilated and retained if they follow from a few
general relations or patterns. Through a network of graphics that refer to each other, every
animal at the zoo could be fit into a simple conceptual framework that patrons could bring to
each exhibit, a tangible perspective from which to look at animals, free of false cultural
stereotypes.

Size As A Graphic Theme

Although so obvious as to be generally overlooked, the size of an organism is no accident;
instead it is one of the major adaptations an animal makes to its habitat (or which
predisposes it to be successful in another habitat). Because it affects nearly every aspect of an
animal’s life, body size has great potential as an integrating zoo theme. And this is true for
another reason: the size of an animal, especially if very large or very small, or if there is an
obvious discrepancy between the sexes, is usually noticed immediately by zoo patrons. They
are primed to receive any information that relates to it.

Biologists over the past 20 years have made many correlations between the anatomy and
physiology of animals and the way those structures and functions change with increasing or
decreasing size. Although the behavioral and ecological implications have not been
completely drawn, and the relationships are not always direct and straight-forward, these
relations may still serve as a valuable tool by which many of the traits and adaptations of
an animal can be understood. Most of the work to date has been done on primates and
ungulates, but many other groups are now being studied from a size perspective.

It may sound too abstract at first but there is really only one intellectual hurdle to be cleared
in order to grasp the idea. And this is easily illustrated. As a series of smaller to larger

349

SIZING UP GRAPHICS. Continued

animals is compared, surface area increases more slowly than does volume. A larger animal
has a lower surface area/volume ratio than a smaller one. This can be illustrated as follows:
if a block of ice and the same amount of ice broken into cubes is compared, the total volume is
the same for each but the sum of the perimeters of the individual cubes (their total surface
area) will be far greater than for the block. With less surface area exposed to warmth, it
melts more slowly. Transposed to animals, this means that with less surface area from which
to lose energy, body heat and water, large animals need to take in less energy pound for pound
than do smaller animals-their metabolic rates are slower. The implications of this simple
physical law effect every aspect of an animal's lifestyle.

The point of using body size as a theme is that it provides a relatively easy handle by which
viewers can grasp the life of an animal and its role in the habitat from which it comes. First,
body size integrates many of the adaptations of individual animals, their height, weight,
the size and shape of their bones and muscles, their diets, predator and anti-predator
defenses, mating habits, sexual dimorphism and social organization; it also determines a
number of life-history facts such as gestation period, time of weaning, inter-birth intervals,
size and number of young, mortality rates, etc. Secondly, the size of animals helps explain
what a habitat is. From one point of view, a community may be seen as a set of niches created
by a certain climate and vegetation and filled with animals of varying sizes. As each
specializes to exploit different resources and micro-habitats, competition among them is
reduced and the habitat is fully and efficiently exploited.

Animals weighing less than 10-15 pounds, with their small stomach capacities and rapid
digestive rates, must select foods rich in nutrients, especially protein. As herbivores, small
animals must choose only those plant foods that are low in fiber and easily digestible, such
foods as fruits, tubers, seeds or the youngest, freshest leaves. As carnivores or omnivores,
small animals usually depend on insects as their source of protein.

This option is not generally open to large animals, who could not catch enough insects to
supply their daily needs. (Anteaters and termite-eating chimps are exceptions to this because
their insect source is so abundant and concentrated). With their large stomach and slow
metabolic rates, large animals are able to utilize leaves and/or grass blades to satisfy their
protein requirements. Leaves, of course, are far more abundant and easier to harvest than
insects. In general, the larger the animal the more fiber it can handle in its diet; elephants,
for example, are capable of digesting the lowest quality foods such as woody plant stems. It
is no accident that the largest terrestrial animals live on open savannas, their large size
conferring on them the ability to take advantage of the seasonally flourishing grasses, as
well as to travel further in search of them. It also aids in their defense against predators on
the open plains where concealment is impossible. The price paid for such abilities is that
huge quantities of food must be ingested and much of the day must be spent feeding, in order
for enough protein to be extracted from their poor diet. Because their food contains little
carbohydrate, leaf-eaters tend to be less active than fruit-eaters or carnivores.

With some exceptions, antelope size is finely correlated with diet. The smallest antelopes,
duikers and dik-diks, are browsers on high quality fresh leaves, fallen fruit and occasional
insects. Large antelopes such as wildebeest may be almost exclusive grazers on low quality
grass blades whereas those intermediate in size, eg. impalas, may be mixed feeders, grazing
or browsing depending on what is available. Their differing food requirements allow these
antelopes to co-exist in one area. The specialized, multi-chambered stomaches and intestinal
flora of ruminants seems to function most efficiently in large animals whose diet is usually
the poorest.

Plant-eating animals, large or small, may exist in huge numbers; by the time energy passes
down the food chain from plant to herbivore to carnivore, there is little remaining to support
populations of predators. Large carnivores are especially rare. The actual size of a predator
is a compromise between the strength required to overcome prey and the mobility needed to
catch it. Large predators, or those that hunt cooperatively, are able to overcome larger prey
and so need to hunt less often.

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SIZING UP GRAPHICS. Continued

To find the food required to satisfy their energy needs, animals must live in appropriate
habitats. Large animals must live where food is abundant, small animals where it is of high
quality. The small browsing African antelopes, for example, tend to restrict themselves to
woodland areas where their preferred foods are more plentiful. This is also true of fruit-
eating primates whose size is limited by the need for mobility in trees. Where an animal
lives determines its relationship to the other animals found there, i.e. what it competes with
and what preys on it. To avoid predators, small animals are obviously better at concealment
while larger animals are more intimidating and usually speedier.

The social organization of a species is a product of, among other things, body size and diet.
Most animals are solitary. The option of living in large social groups (as an anti-predator
strategy) may not be open to animals if there is inadequate food to support them. Wherever
food is abundant, as in tropical savannas, both small (e.g. meerkats) and large herbivorous
animals may be social This in turn makes it advantageous for certain carnivores to live in
groups. The degree of sociality of a species in part determines how the sexes will meet for
breeding. In those animals in which competition between males is high, as in gorillas and
orangs, sexual dimorphism in size and/or appearance often results.

The size of an animal affects the climate in which it can live. Large animals are better
suited to colder climates than smaller ones, for they lose heat more slowly. They are also
common in hot areas as they lose water at slower rates than do smaller animals. In general,
being large is a strategy that involves producing a few, well-cared-for individuals, strong
and relatively protected from daily and seasonal extremes of the environment. To us,
probably because we too are large, they often seem to be the dominant, most successful species.

Small animals, individually vulnerable to stress and generally short-lived, put their energy
into reproduction rather than growth. This allows quicker population adjustment to changes
in a habitat over time.

Small animals are thus favored in fluctuating environments where the food supply varies
considerably in cycles. With early maturation, larger litter size, short inter-birth intervals,
high density tolerance and low individual survival rates, they respond very rapidly to
increasing or decreasing food supply. Frequent mating and the production of numerous
offspring with little parental care are the keys to their success. Small animals can also make
use of micro-habitats like burrows to escape predators or extremes of climate, and only small
animals are capable of undergoing the greatly lowered body temperatures necessary for
hibernation or dormancy. Since they are prone to losing energy quickly, the disadvantage of
being small is the high energetic cost of maintaining a stable body temperature, requiring a
great daily intake of high-protein food. Locomotion too is energetically costly for small
animals. Nevertheless, most animals are small and they, not the large beasts that fascinate
us, are the essential components of ecosystems.

Body size can also be used in a direct discussion of why certain animals are endangered. The
individual attributes of an animal fit it to a certain role in the ehvironment; if it becomes too
specialized, too dependent on one feature of its habitat which then changes, it is likely to
become extinct, a victim of having adapted too well. Large animals have always been more
vulnerable to extinction. With their slow reproductive rates, they are less able to adapt to
changing conditions, for example a drastic change in food availability. They also suffer the
most from man's disruption of habitat, for they require large areas of land to find sufficient
food.

Graphics dealing with the adaptability of being a certain size, superimposed over a zoo's
life-zone or geographical area theme, would flesh it out, adding a new dimension to the
understanding of why animals are found just where they are. What is it about a habitat that
makes a certain appearance and behavior adaptive there? How do these traits allow an
animal to successfully exploit a certain niche? Animals from different geographical areas
may be compared if they occupy similar niches, e.g. small arboreal omnivores in Africa and
the Amazon or medium-sized fruit-eaters in Borneo and Madagascar, or large grazers on
savannas throughout the world.

351

SIZING UP GRAPHICS. Continued,

An outline of the implications of body size and of the differences between large and small
animals, sketched out clearly and with illustrations, could be placed at intervals around the
zoo, or a guidebook issued. Armed with a theme based on what they actually notice,
repeated with variations at every exhibit; people might begin to find graphics more
interesting. Low-key signs between exhibits could prevent their minds from wandering off the
subject too much, putting the previous exhibit in perspective as it prepared the way for the
next, perhaps even raising questions in patrons' minds as they approached it. This could be-
come a sort of game, especially useful for teaching children. If the upcoming exhibit
contained a small deer, for example, zoogoers could be asked to imagine, given its small size,
what kind of a habitat it might live in or what its diet might be. Or, to explain the concept
of niche, it could be compared to other herbivores of similar size, or contrasted with larger
ones. In this way, continuity between exhibits would be assured, helping erase the image of
the zoo as a chaotic assemblage of unrelated animals.

By their presence in a children’s zoo, the small animals usually found there tend to give the
impression (subliminally) that they are somehow more childlike than other animals;
instead, these animals could be integrated through a theme such as the advantages and
disadvantages of being small, perhaps even making a comparison between the needs of
children and adult humans. Body size relationships can also be used to explain particular
husbandry details that people may notice at a zoo, e.g. the use of heat lamps for small or
young animals (who lose body heat faster than large ones), or the ability of large herbivores
to subsist on hay.

Is this theme too complicated for the average zoogoer, too abstract and demanding? Should
we be offering only easily assimilated facts to match short attention spans? I do not think so.
Unconnected facts may be immediately obvious but they oversimplify, give a false
impression, imparting nothing of the uniqueness and complexity of animals and habitats.
Surely it is more important to teach general patterns and relations that might enlighten a
few people than dry, relatively trivial bits of information that are easily digested by the
masses and quickly forgotten. Of course, these more complex ideas must be presented as
clearly and simply as possible, and with ample illustrations, but the true complexities of
animal ecology must not be glossed over or distorted.

If most people in an area do not speak the language well, should newspapers there be written
with poor grammar and spelling in deference to them, should the truth be over-simplified to
make it comprehensible or distorted to make it thrilling? Of course not, the language should
be correct and the non-literate people are expected to learn it if they want to understand
current events. Analogously, zoo graphics must represent animals in their truest light, to the
best of our knowledge, even if many people are not competent or motivated enough to read
them. If most people do not read graphics, and may never, we should not be writing for them.
On the other hand, given the urgency of extinction, we should never stop looking for ways to
increase their motivation.

The following is a short list of books and articles on the subject of body size which I have
found useful.

The Ecological Implications of Body Size by Robert Henry Peters, 1983
from Advances in the Study of Mammalian Behavior Eisenberg, Kleiman, eds.

-The functional significance of variation in body size among mammals --
Glutton, Brock, Harvey

-Ecological and behavioral consequences of adaptation to various food sources--
Brian McNab

Ecology of Small Mammals D. Michael Stoddart, ed.

Size, life history and ecology of mammals— D. Western from African Journal of Ecology,
17:185-205.

352

SIZING UP GRAPHICS. Continued

Scaling: Why is animal size important? - Schmidt-Nielson

Serengeti : Dynamics of an ecosystem - Sinclair, Norton-Griffiths, eds.
—several chapters

Primates in Nature - Alison F. Richard

The Mammalian Radiations - John F. Eisenberg

Information Please

The Seneca Park Zoological Gardens has recently experienced one fatality and one near
fatality in male reindeer due to anesthesia complications. The anesthesia used was
Rompum/Xylazine and the antagonist was Yohimbine (trade name: Antaganil). Both
males were in rut. They request any information concerning experiences of other zoos
with the use of these anesthesia agents, especially on reindeer during rutting season.
There is concern that hormonal changes during rut may interfere with the metabolism of
these agents. Please send any information: dosages, positive or negative experiences,
etc. to: Susan Bandura , Seneca Park Zoological Gardens, 2222 St. Paul St., Rochester,
NY 14621.

Any members having information on heartworm treatments, problems, or preventative
measures for River Otters, please contact: Leland Eiben, 2512 1/2 Avenue K, Galveston,
TX 77550.

Anyone having information on urine collection for pregnancy testing in polar bears or
any other bears please contact: Paula Wages, Little Rock Zoo, # 1 Jonesboro Drive, Little
Rock, AR 72205.

I would like to inquire from readers as to whether or not power equipment such as back-
pack blowers (typically used to blow sidewalks clean) or gas powered yard vaccums are
used in close proximity to animals or birds at your respective facilities. If this
equipment is not used to clean areas external to exhibits and public walkways, what
methods are used? Please send all responses to: Melissa E. Smith, Applegate Zoo, 2525
"0" St., Merced, CA 95340.

Help Needed To Rebuild Files! We experienced the loss of virtually all our educational
and outreach material as a result of the Chicago area's "Flood of ’87", due to water, mud
and sewage. We would appreciate your help to replace: Visual material for posters &
programs (slides, photos, posters, etc.) and information/fact sheets on any and all
species. Brochures/information on your zoo, aquarium and/or organization would also
be appreciated. Any items than can be provided cost free would be appreciated, but if
there is a cost for an item, please let us know in advance so that we can make purchase
decisions based on the finances available. If you have questions on the above, or in
regard to other needs, please let us know. Thank you! —Don Rolla, Elsa Wild Animal
Appeal, P.O. Box 675, Elmhurst, IL 60126 (312) 833-8896.

Book Review

Diseases of Reptiles

By Dr. H. Reichenbach-Klinke and Dr. E. Elkan
T.F.H. Publications, Inc., Ltd., 1965
Box 427, Neptune, NJ 07753
600 pages, hardbound, B&W photographs
Price $19.95

Review by John D. Mossier
Museum Technician, Charlotte
County Youth Museum
Punta Gorda, PL

As I started to review Diseases of Reptiles I found myself starting on Chapter 19! This came
as a shock until I found the explanation in the publisher's preface.

This originally was one of three parts issued as a single volume under the title The Principle
Diseases of Lower Vertebrates which dealt with diseases of aquarium fish, amphibians,
and reptiles.

T.F.H. Publications undertook the republication, breaking the book apart into three separate
volumes. People interested in the diseases of snakes might hardly be interested in the
diseases of pencilfish!

Once over this hurtle one finds no attempts have been made to make this book "popular"
reading. All the disciplines of anatomy, physiology, pathology, and zoology are all found in
this volume. The eight chapters are all very straight forward with references after each one.

Chapter 19 (the first chapter) starts with Techniques of Investigation. Like other animals,
reptiles have to be closely watched for their state of health with simple measures such as
environmental conditions (light, soil, heat and humidity). These factors as well as such
subjects as difficulties and irregularities in skin shedding, loss of the brilliance of the natural
colors, food supplement and age are also covered. Because the nature of this book is reptile
pathology and disease - anesthesia, killing of specimens and dissection are all topics found in
this first section.

Infectious, nonparasitic and environmental diseases are covered in the next two chapters.
Bacterial infections, protozoa, tapeworms, leeches and ticks are just a few of the areas that
are covered. On the subject of ticks, the author is quick to point out that certain members of the
family Argasidae must be regarded as particularly dangerous because they transmit diseases
caused by spirochaetes, like Q-fever, and others which may also infect humans.

Sometimes a reptile will fall ill not because of parasites, but because of a faulty environment
due to a number of factors.

In Chapter 21 the author suggests that unsuitable nutrition with the lack of certain vitamins
can cause a number of problems including rickets, oedema of the eyes, and distorted shells in
turtles.

Wound healing and regeneration are discussed in Chapter 22 and Chapter 23 deals with
developmental abnormalities.

The last four chapters discuss subjects such as the organic systems of reptiles, the symptoms
and possible causes of diseases in reptiles, treatment, and reptilian and human hygiene. The
book closes with two glossaries, both of which deal with zoological names. (Be forewarned,
this book is very thick with scientific nomenclature.)

I would highly recommend this book to anyone in the field of herpetology or zoo veterinary
technicians needing a good reference book on reptile pathology.

354

Kenya Diary

Part 2

By

Andy Lodge
Keeper ; Columbus Zoo
Columbus , OH

On the Brink of Extinction; A Ngare Sergoi Toumal

May 20, 1986 - From my bedroom, early in the mornings, I have a
beautiful view of Mt. Kenya. It snowed up there last night, and when the sun glistens on the
snow-capped peaks it has to be one of the most fantastic sights any human being has ever been
privileged to witness. Unfortunately, the mountains are only visible in the early morning
because from mid-morning on they are enveloped in clouds.

I went out this morning to pick the rhinos I want to include in my study. I observed a female
named Stumpy and her year-old calf, whose name was Bahati. I'll watch them for a few
mornings and late afternoons as that's when they are most active. Most of the rhino on the
reserve sleep the better part of the afternoon.

After lunch I took my first solo drive in the Land Rover. I'm slowly getting the hang of it, but
I'm glad no one was with me. I observed Stumpy and Bahati until sunset.

Anna and Karl invited me to join them on a picnic. We drove to a remote comer of the reserve
and climbed up into a thatched roof watch tower where we enjoyed a meal of cheese, soup and
corned beef - all very delicious. I related to them stories of my life in the United States and
they told me of their life in various parts of Africa. There's no question their life has been
much more exciting than mine. What fine people they are!

May 21 - Anna came and got me early this morning and asked me if I wanted to go see the
elephants. Sometime during the night they had moved onto the ranch. Anyone who knows
me, knows she didn't have to ask twice. We took our breakfast and drove about seven miles
over some very bad roads to a lookout point high in the mountains. What a view from up
here! I've never had breakfast with the panorama of endless mountains and lush green
valleys spread before me as they were this morning. I shall never forget the thrill of seeing
those elephants through my field glasses. There were only three, but after years of training
elephants at the zoo, it’s always a special treat to see them roaming free in their native
habitat. They are truly lords of their domain.

The return trip provided an opportunity to observe numerous giraffe, hartebeest, waterbuck,
impala. Grant and Grevy zebra, rhino and ostrich.

For the rest of the day I concentrated on studying the rhinos. I paid particular attention to the
large dominant male Godot. He is a magnificent animal, but he can be extremely aggressive.
He has a habit of charging people and vehicles. He is so dangerous no one can use the road
until he leaves.

I took the Rover this afternoon, and with a map Jilly drew for me, I began to learn my way
around the reserve.

We had a special treat tonight. One of the ranchhands gave me a chicken he had killed and
cleaned and Anna prepared it for dinner.

355

Kenya Diary, Continued

May 22 - Anna came by this morning and said her sink was leaking and asked if I could fix it.
As there isn’t a Tru-Value down the road, I made gaskets out of a piece of old inner tube. It
worked fine and the leak is fixed.

During the rhino watch, a group of nine female greater kudu, and a male waterbuck walked by
the dominant male (Godot). He paid little attention to the kudu, but charged the male
waterbuck. We haven't seen the waterbuck since he disappeared over the hill.

I had my first encounter with a warthog today. As I was walking around the Rover, a female
and her youngsters popped up out of the bush. These animals, though small in stature, can be
vicious and are considered very dangerous. In this case, however, she was as startled as I was
and we both took off in opposite directions, me jumping up on my truck and the warthogs
running into the bush. Only later did I find out this particular warthog had been hand-raised
and is considered a pet - talk about feeling foolish!

Since we were low on supplies we sent some of the help to Nanyhki, a small town which is a
45 minute drive from here. They brought back ham, potatoes, cookies, eggs and bread. These
items may not sound very exotic, but believe me they were received enthusiastically.

Tonight we were invited to the home of Tony and Ross Dyer. They are related to the Craigs
and are extremely interesting people. They are the last of a breed of colonial Europeans
living in a rapidly changing Africa. I could never grow tired of Tony's stories of the old
Africa, the way it was when he was a young man. Both Tony and his wife are unmistakably
British and through their eyes I developed an understanding for the ending of a bygone era.
We had a fine dinner, and I found them to be warm and friendly people.

May 23 - I've been going with Anna every morning now. Each morning we check all twelve of
the rhinos to make sure there are no problems with them. I saw my first gerenuk today. With
their extremely long necks and habit of standing on their hind legs to reach up into Acacia
trees for feeding, these small antelope are unquestionably some of the most unique animals in
Africa.

This afternoon a friend of mine from the Columbus Zoo, Rick Preberg, arrived for a short visit.
Rick is the zoo's media specialist and a real genius at putting together slide and video
productions. He’ll be in Kenya and Tanzania for a month shooting slides for his work back at
the zoo. Jilly and I gave him a short tour of the rhino reserve, and he photographed every bit
of wildlife and landscape he could train his camera on. The visit was all to brief as Rick had
to be at Samburu by 6:00 p.m.

Dinner tonight was a special occasion as two friends of Anna's friends from England, Bob Brett
and Colin Francombe, were visiting. Colin is a world authority on the black rhino and I had
the pleasure of sitting in on their interesting and informative conversation. Bob works for Ian-
Douglas Hamilton, in my opinion the world’s greatest authority on African elephants, and a
man I’ve greatly admired for many years.

May 24 - Karl and I left at sunup this morning and drove to the far end of Lewa Downs to a
large flat hilltop. We walked to the top and had breakfast while enjoying the exhilarating
view of the valley below.

On the way back we stopped at the home of Ian and Jane Craig. The elephants had come back
last night and from their porch overlooking a huge valley I counted forty-three. What an
incredible sight! I also counted the youngsters in the herd, there were eighteen of varying
ages.

We encountered a lone baby ostrich wandering by itself along the road as we drove home. My
first impulse was to get out of the Rover and rescue it. But then I remembered the first rule of
wildlife management that baby animals’ mothers are usually not far off. I would rather
chance an encounter with a rhino than an angry ostrich mother, so I allowed nature to take its
course. Come to think of it. I’m not particularly fond of ostriches anyhow.

To Be Continued.

Meet The Waldrapp

(Geronticus eremitdl

By

Michael Kreger, Keeper
Mammal Department
New York Zoological Society
Bronx , NY

The Bronx Zoo Waldrapp ibis colony ( Geronticus eremita) produced three young this
Spring during their first year as mature birds. What makes these hatchings so
significant is that there are more Waldrapp in captivity than in the wild and they are
currently listed by the International Council for Bird Preservation (ICBP) as "extremely
endangered". In the United States, only the Bronx Zoo and the Philadelphia Zoo have
them in their collections. Since many zoo people are unfamiliar with this fascinating
bird, it seems appropriate to introduce it here.

General Characteristics

The Waldrapp ibis, also known as Bald ibis, Hermit ibis, and Barefaced ibis as an adult
is characterized by the bald, pink-orange sides of the head and elongated feathers that
stem from the back and sides of the neck to form a tuft that can be raised during courtship
or in antagonistic behavior. The male is larger than the female but otherwise the sexes
are not dimorphic. Plumage is black and upper wing coverts are an iridescent greenish-
copper.

They are cliff nesters that breed in mostly arid regions of tropical and temperate zones.
The remaining isolated colonies are found in Morocco and Turkey. The Turkish colony
winters in Northeast Africa while the Moroccan birds seem only to disperse during the
winter. They feed primarily on invertebrates but are also known to consume fish,
lizards, rodents, other birds (alive or dead), berries, shoots, and aquatic plants.

History

Sometime around 3000 B.C., the ancient Egyptians set up a written language based on
hieroglyphic symbols to represent deities, events, phonetics, and words. Many of these
glyphs were drawings of wildlife common to the Nile Valley and known to the populace.
The phonetic "Akh" used as an adjective indicates "spirit-like", "glorious", and
"beneficial". As a noun it means "spirit" and "deified soul", and in the Book of the Dead
(1500-1000 B. C.) which was placed in the tombs to explain to the soul how to get along in the
afterlife, "Akh" represents someone who had a rich life and was destined to a glorious
afterlife. The glyph chosen to represent "Akh" for over 2000 years was the Waldrapp ibis.
For reasons unknown, it became extinct in Egypt.

In parts of Turkey, it was believed that the Waldrapp carries the souls of the dead over
Mecca during its annual migration and was held sacred. In the Spring, a festival was
held to celebrate its return. That population had not be threatened with extinction until the
twentieth century. In contrast, the colonies along the Swiss Alps did well throughout the
Middle Ages when they were protected by the Archbishop of Salzburg who banned the
taking of nestlings so that they could be used as a delicacy reserved for nobility.
Enforcement was impossible. By the mid 1700's, Waldrapp as a delicacy almost
extinguished the entire population throughout the Alps and along the Danube. In Syria, it
became extinct around 1929 following the belief that the ibis' sacred powers would be
transmitted to the eater. The species was recorded in Algeria until 1930.

357

Meet The Waldrapp . Continued

In this century, hunting, nest site disturbances, and reproductive failure due to residual
pesticides such as DDT and dieldrin have virtually wiped out the Waldrapp and restricted
it to a colony in Morocco and one in Birecik, Turkey. In Birecik, the human population
has doubled since 1958 and many homes have been built at the base of the cliffs (Waldrapp
nesting habitat) utilizing the cliff face as the walls of these homes. The birds have been
considered nuisance animals to these people for soiling laundry and footpaths. They are
often stoned by children and spraying of antimalarial pesticides killed over 600
hatchlings between 1956 and 1959. The Birecik colony which had 3000 pairs in 1890,
plummeted to 25 pairs in 1975. The Morocco colony decreased from 1000 pairs in 1930 to
less than 100 pairs in 1982. A 1981 World Wildlife Monthly Report reported less than 100
pairs left in the wild worldwide.

Conservation Efforts

In 1972, German ecologist Udo Hirsch convinced the Mayor of Birecik to ban cliffside
construction and create a park at its base. The mayor even offered "free-land" grants to
relocate people with homes below the nesting ledges. An environmental education
campaign was launched in towns and schools which featured lectures and films about the
ibis and the "Festival of the Bald Ibis" was revived after 15 years through parades and
celebration in the Spring when the ibis returns. In 1973, Hirsch widened nesting ledges
by building wooden platforms along two-thirds of the cliff. As a result, 85% of the 1976
population nested on the platforms. In the 1980's, he set up an aviary near the cliff where
he could breed wild-caught birds and release captive-born fledglings back into the wild
population.

There are educational campaigns in Morocco and in both countries the Waldrapp is
protected from hunting and capture. Enforcement, however, is lacking. Currently, plans
exist for introducing the species into Israel.

Zoological parks play a vital role in Waldrapp conservation. While ibis habitat
continues to decline, the number of zoos breeding captive-born stock has increased. In
1983, 548 Waldrapp ibises (86.63.399) were hatched in 37 zoos. Some zoos, particularly the
Basal Zoo in Switzerland, are noted for their often successful attempts at introducing their
birds to the wild. Others breed the birds so that zoos without them can begin their own
colonies.

An Egyptian depiction of the Waldrapp ibis found in
a princess' tomb. Fourth Dynasty (about 2686 B.C.)

358

Meet The Waldrapp . Continued

Waldrapn At The Bronx Zoo

The New York Zoological Society is one of six ISIS (International Species Inventory
System) participants that have the Waldrapp. As previously mentioned, the only two zoos
in the western hemisphere exhibiting this species are the Philadelphia and Bronx Zoos.
As of 31 December 1986, the total ISIS population was 78 individuals (19.18.41) with four
successful hatchings in Philadelphia. Between January 1982 and December 1986, there
were 47 captive births and a net population increase of 25 individuals.

In 1966, the Bronx Zoo purchased a single adult male, the first in the collection, from the
Basel Zoo. In 1975, it was sent on loan to the Philadelphia Zoo where it successfully bred.
Two of its 1984 offspring returned to the Bronx in 1985 where they were integrated into a
colony of 15 birds purchased from the Tierpark Rheine Zoo of West Germany in 1984. All
of these birds were purchased as yearlings and all are captive-born.

The Waldrapp Aviary stands in the Wild Asia Plaza in front of Jungle World. The birds
stay in their spacious outdoor exhibit although throughout the year they do have access to a
heated, off-exhibit area. The exhibit features a cliffside with abundant ledges and coves,
talus, a running stream, trees, shrubs, grasses, woodchipped slopes, and a pebbly
streambank, and is framed on all sides except the public viewing area by natural
vegetation. Their diet consists of soaked kibble with chopped fish, trays of horsemeat
mixed with cooked eggs, and supplements of calcium. Vitamin E, and a carrot derivative.
In the winter they are fed at 8 a.m. and 2 p.m., and in the summer at 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Afternoon feedings also include crickets and mealworms.

Sexual maturity at the Basel Zoo was at three years; the Bronx colony followed suit. In
early March, keepers observed courtship behavior which included males pointing bills
upwards, extending the throat and making loud guttural calls to females from potential
nest sites. This was followed by allopreening and mutual bill rubbing once the female
had been attracted. Breeding followed and keepers began to regularly add weeds, sticks
and grasses to the exhibit for use as nesting material.

It had been decided that for the first breeding year of these birds, no eggs would be pulled
and incubated and young would not be hand-reared. The colony would be allowed to go
through the necessary natural learning processes of nesting, incubating, and raising
young so that their experience would enhance hatchling survival in future seasons.

By 23 April, six pairs were established and had built fairly deep loose nests of twigs with
inner linings of grassy material. Both sexes collected nest material and contributed to
nest construction. The first egg was laid on 6 April, hatched on 9 May, and was observed
fledging on 29 June. A second egg was laid in the same nest on 9 April but was discovered
missing one month later.

In the second nest, an egg was laid on 18 April, pipped on 15 May, hatched on 18 May, and
fledged on 5 July. A third egg was laid on 23 April and was found dead in the exhibit after
hatching.

Of the remaining four pairs, one laid an infertile egg and another constructed a nest and
bred but did not produce an egg. A third pair laid a single egg on 12 April and another on
15 April; one hatched and was found dead outside the nest on 9 May and the other was
missing. The final pair actually double-clutched. Three eggs were laid by 7 April but by
9 May, after a 30-day incubation period, one egg was broken and two were missing. On
that same day, the pair was observed breeding and by 28 May, three eggs had been
produced and were being incubated. By 23 June, the eggs were missing.

During their first breeding season, there was a total of 13 eggs produced by six pairs.
Three eggs hatched and the young are fledged and healthy. One was broken, two hatched
but were found dead, and seven eggs were reported missing. Missing eggs could possibly
be attributed to rodent predation, heat-exploded eggs eaten by adults, and any number of
factors which will be planned for in the future.

359

Meet The Waldrapp . Continued

Both sexes incubated the eggs, arranged nesting material, and regurgitated food to the
young. One adult was always present at the nest to brood over them. The Jersey Zoo
reported an incubation period of 30 days in 1975. In the wild, this period is 24-25 days. Our
chicks had incubation periods approximately 28, 29 and 34 days.

The young were born with a charcoal-gray down and a bare forehead and lores. The bill
was conical but, after about 20 days, began to elongate and curve downward. Although no
measurements were taken, the young approximated the height of the adults one month
after hatching. They were "leg-banded" on 24 June.

In the wild, fledging has been reported to be between 40 and 50 days. Ours fledged at
approximately 51, 48, and 48 days. The chick that hatched on 9 May fledged about 51 days
later and was observed flying from the cliff ledge to a treetop in the exhibit and returned to
the ledge some four hours later. Its parents were always nearby and were observed
feeding it once in the tree. Other adults in the tree prodded it with their bills, but there was
no indication of aggression. Occasionally, the parents chased the birds that came within
reach of the young. By 4 July, it was spending time flying to feed sites and feeding on its
own. The 17 May chick fledged on 4 July and the 18 May hatchling did so on 5 July. By 9
July, all hatchlings were flying and probing the exhibit floor for food with the rest of the
colony. Their bills have changed from black to almost pink as in the adults. The
youngest, though it searches out and finds food elsewhere, still returned to its mother for a
regurgitated meal.

Conclusion

The Waldrapp ( Geronticus eremita) has had a glorious and disastrous history in the
wild. Combined with field conservation efforts, its captive propagation is central to its
survival. The Bronx Zoo has taken an active role in raising public awareness,
exhibiting, and successfully breeding this species. Of the 17 birds exhibited in the aviary,
six pairs formed, bred, nested, and resulted in three healthy chicks. If such success
continues, the possibility of encouraging other zoos to start their own colonies and the
eventual reintroduction to the wild can become a reality.

Acknowledgments

I wish to express my gratitude for the cooperation of bird keepers Dave Florin, Frank
Indiviglio, and Paul Zabarauskas; mammal keeper Mark Hofling; librarian Steve
Johnson; general curator James Doherty; associate ornithology curator Christine
Sheppard; registrar Dan Wharton; and Anne Russmann, associate curator of the
Department of Egyptian Art, Metropolitan Museum of Art.

References

Cramp, E., et al (1977): Handbook of the Birds of Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Vol. 1 Oxford University Press, London.

Gardiner, Sir A. (3rd edition): Egyptian Grammar . Oxford University Press, London.

Hirsch, U. (1983,84): Waldrapp ibis - Geronticus eremita. Conservation Project Bald
Ibis. Correspondence.

Houlihan. P. (1986): The Birds of Ancient Egypt. Aris and Phillips, England.

ISIS SDR Abstract and Micrifliche. 31 December 1986.

King, W. (1979,81): The ICBP Bird Red Data Book. Union for the Conservation of Nature
and Natural Resources. Switzerland.

360

Meet The Waldrapp . Continued

Mallet, M. (1976): Breeding the Waldrapp ibis at Jersey Zoo. International Zoo
Yearbook 17.

Mallet, M. (1976): The Waldrann ibis ( Geronticus eremita). The Jersey Wildlife
Preservation Trust Twelfth Annual Report.

Russmann, A. (1987): Personal communication. Associate curator, Dept, of
Egyptian Art, Metropolitan Museum of Art, NY.

Taxon Report (6/18/87): Geronticus eremita . New York Zoological Park.

An Encouraging Word

U.S. and Canada Sign Caribou Conservation Agreement

In mid-July, Secretary of the Interior Don Hodel and Canadian Minister of Environment
Thomas McMillan signed an agreement calling for international conservation of the Porcupine
caribou herd that migrates between Alaska and Canada.

The agreement is aimed at conserving the herd through international cooperation and
coordinated so that long-term adverse effects from the use of the herd or its habitat are
minimized. It also calls for the establishment of an International Porcupine Caribou Board
consisting of four representatives from each country. The Board will evaluate information
concerning the herd and its habitat in order to make recommendations and provide advice on
conservation measures requiring international coordination.

The agreement also recognizes the importance of the herd to customary and traditional human
uses, including subsistance harvest that have been practiced by generations of rural residents
in Alaska, the Yukon Territory, and the Northwest Territories. The interests of these and
other users are given consideration as part of the agreement.

The Porcupine caribou herd is named after the Porcupine River, which drains a significant
portion of the herd's 96,100-square-mile range in northeast Alaska and northwest Canada.
The herd generally winters in Canada and undertakes a spring migration to calving grounds
located in the foothills of the Brooks Range and the coastal plain bordering the Beaufort Sea
from the Canning River in Alaska to the Babbage River in Canada. The calving areas in
Alaska are encompassed by the nearly 20-million-acre Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The
current herd is estimated to number 180,000 animals.

ATTENTION

CHAPTER LIAISONS !!

If any Chapter Liaisons have not as yet
received their Chapter Liaison Packet,
please notify Jean Hromadka so that she
may send you one. This packet will
hopefully answer many of the questions
your Chapter members may have about
AAZK.

If your Chapter has not yet appointed a
Chapter Liaison as yet, please do so ASAP
and let National HQ know who that per

son is. Having a Chapter Liaison will
hopefully help keep your Chapter in closer
touch with National AAZK.

All Chapter Liaisons are asked to plan to
submit an annual report on your Chapter's
activities to your local Regional
Coordinator. Also let your RC know if
there is anyway National can assist your
Chapter.

361

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]

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) 229-771 1 [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 Zoological Park, Detroit, MI
for the states of MI, IN, KY, and OH
Chris Garland, North Carolina Zoological Park, Asheboro, NC
for the states of NC,SC,TN, and 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) 292-6314 [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 921 12
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, 2355 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! They will be glad to assist you with any
information you need about AAZK.

Biological Values II Now Available

AAZK is pleased to offer its members and
other interested individuals in the zoo
community the mammal reference book
entitled Bi ologic a l Value? For Selected
Mammals - - 1985 Edition. This updated
and expanded edition is far more compre-
hensive than the original edition. The 1985
Edition is a 112-page work containing bio-
logical data on 441 species of mammals.
Included in the data are: common name,
scientific name (identified by genus and
species and arranged according to the 19
recognized orders of mammals), geographic
range, normal adult size, normal adult
weight, estrus cycle, gestation period, num-
ber of young, weaning, sexual maturity, life
expectancy, body temperature, pulse and
respiration rate, and names used for the
male, female and young of each species.
Three pages of the references for data given
are included, as is a nine-page index of the
selected mammals by common name with
cross-indexing when considered appropriate.
A Table of Contents offers the researcher
quick access to pertinent information.

This handy and informative publication was researched and compiled by a team of seventeen
zookeepers, docents, interns and zoo volunteers at the San Francisco Zoo, and separately
identifies and incorporates certain pertinent empirical data submitted by twenty zookeepers
from twelve zoos throughout the world. Formated for quick and easy reference, and
charmingly illustrated, this book will surely be an important and welcome addition to the
library of any zookeeper and/or member of the zoo community.

Biological Values For Selected Mammals is being offered for sale at the following prices:
Professional AAZK Member ($4.00); Other AAZK Membership Categories ($5.50); Non-
Members ($7.00). This price includes postage and handling. Orders outside the U.S. (including
Canada) need to add $2.00 per copy for First Class mail service. Domestic orders are sent
Book Rate. To order, fill out the form below or send necessary information to: Biological
Values Book, c/o AAZK National Headquarters, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Make
check or money order (U.S. Funds Only) payable to: "Biological Values/ AAZK". Domestic
orders please allow 4-6 weeks delivery at Book Rate.

Biological Values Order Form

Please send copy/ copies, at $ each to: (Please Print)

NAME:

ADDRESS:

CITY: STATE: ZIP:

Please check Membership Category: P ( ) AF ( ) AS ( ) INST ( ) NON-MEM ( )

Institutions wishing to advertise employments opportunities are asked to send pertinent
data by the 15th of each month to: Opportunity Knocks /AKE, 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.

ZOO SUPERVISOR .... for the City of Scottsbluff, NE requires the performance of skilled
maintenance tasks associated with professional captive animal management and zoo
administration. Prefer education equivalent to completion of college or technical school
training program in captive animal management or related field, successful completion
of certificate program sponsored by the AAZPA. For further information and application
contact: Linda L. Witko, Assistant City Manager/Personnel Officer, City Hall, 1818
Avenue A, Scottsbluff, NE 69361. Applications will be accepted until 15 November, 1987.
EOE.

HOSPITAL ANIMAL KEEPER responsible for care of

hospitalized and quarantined animals, general hospital upkeep.

Must work with entire collection as needed. Good observational
skills. One or more years experience. Prefer four year degree in
life sciences or two year degree from recognized zoo school.

$12,000-$18,000. Submit resume to: Richard M. Hurst,

Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN
46222.

PATIENT CARE STAFF ....openings at Lifeline for Wildlife,

Inc., a nationally recognized Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
caring for 5000 wild mammals, birds and reptiles annually. 35
acres, new wildlife hospital under construction. No experience
necessary, but compassion, energy and initiative are needed.

Long hours and lots of hard work. Housing, utilities and salary
provided. Animal right orientation. Lifeline is a leader in the
field of wildlife rehabilitation and we demand an unusual
amount of dedication from our staff. We are searching for
exceptional individuals. Please send letter and/or resume to:

Betsy Lewis, Executive Director, Lifeline for Wildlife, Inc.,

Blanchard Road, Stony Point, NY 10980; (914) 429-0180.

MAMMAL KEEPER ... .three years' experience preferred. Responsible for animal care
and maintenance, daily record keeping and interactions with educational staff and the
public. Will work in carnivore, small mammal and Australian sections. Salary
commensurate with experience. Send resume/statement of interest to: Personnel
Department, Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513.

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ZOO SUPERINTENDENT a full-time position responsible for administrative,

professional and technical work in the development, operation and maintenance of a
quality small zoo. Requires a bachelors's degree in zoology or closely related field and
some experience in bird and animal husbandry in a public zoo preferable. Closing date
is 20 November, 1987. Salary $1 5, 000-$l 7,000/year plus housing and excellent benefits.
Send resume to: Park and Rec. Dept., P.O. Box 910, Watertown, SD 57201.

364

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

$20.00 Affiliate
Other staff & volunteers

$15.00 Associate
Those not connected
with an animal facility

$15.00 Library
Library subscription only

Directory Information: Zoo:

$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 will 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.

DEADLINE FOR EACH EDITION IS THE 15TH

OF THE PRECEDING MONTH

Articles printed do not necessarily reflect the
opinions of the Animal Keeners' 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

j

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PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

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December 1987
Special Edition

13TH NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION

\nimal

keepers'

: orum

Dedicated to Professional Animal Care

ANIMAL KEEPERS' FORUM. 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606

Executive Editor: Alice Miser December 1987

Managing Editor: Susan Chan Volume Fourteen

Associate Editor: Ron Ringer Number Twelve

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 the
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

JBQARD— Q . E -.P IR E C TORS

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, Canada
Susan M. Barnard, Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30315
Brint Spencer, Minnesota Zoological Gardens, Apple Valley, MN 55124

COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS - PROJECT HEADS

President
Vice President

Conference Book Committee

Phil Pennock, Woodland Park

A mr.ds-HQm mit l££

Rachel Rogers, Miami Metrozoo
Book Review Coordinator

Kathy Sucharitakul, Akron Zoo
St aff Exchan ge
Elandra Aum, Woodland Park Zoo
lalsmalmiml Affairs Coordinators - Melba Shields
and Pam McDougall

Exhib i t Design Form

Diane Forsyth, Akron Zoo
AAZkULiais flu to AAZPA/IZE

Brandy Pound, San Francisco Zoo

K ee p-eL- Accomm oda tio ns _ L ist

Oliver Claffey, Metro Toronto Zoo
K eeper Tr ai ning Vi deot a p e
Wayne Buchanan, Woodland Park Zoo
K ee per--T.r.a.i n ing. Materials Identifie.ati.tm

Rosemary Jalink, Mill Mountain Zoo

Zoo Keeper Husbandry Fundamentals Book

Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo

K ee per E ducation . Commit tee

Pat Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo
Research/Grants,,. Committee.

Kaci Thompson, NZP
P ublic Edu c a tio n Committee .

Ellen Bradfield, Zoo Atlanta
AAZK History Committee

Art Goodrich, San Diego Zoo
, National Zoo (east)

Calgary Zoo (west)

Animal Data Transfer Form

Bemie Feldman, Burnet Park Zoo
Membership Directory

National HQ Staff
Die t N ot eb o ok
Susan Bunn, Minnesota Zoo
Biological Vahies/Gestation

Greater S. F. Bay Area Chapter
Library Resources

Kaci Thompson, NZP

I nfant Deve lopment NoteimoK

Steven Wing, Milwaukee Zoo

C O - DIR EC T O R S. R EG I O N A L C OORD IN A TORS
States East of the Mississipp i - Diane Krug, White Oak Plantation, Yulee, FL
States West of Mississip pi - Debbera Stecher, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA

Individual Regional Coordinators and the states they oversee are listed elsewhere in each issue of AKF.

Table of Contents

Coming Events 366

Overview of the 1987 AAZK Board of Director’s Meeting... ............. 367

AAZK Regional Coordinators List 375

Illegal Wildlife Trade: Keep Informed 377

Treatment & Management of Chronic Foot Problems

in an Indian Rhinoceros 380

White Oak Plantation: Rare Animal Conservation Center 385

Polar Bear Reproduction at the Hogle Zoo 388

Information Please 390

Hand-raising an Andean Condor at the Potawatomi Zoo 391

Hand-Rearing & Reintroduction of a Mandrill Baboon.. 397

How We Keep Our Gorilla Occupied... 401

Keeper's Alert-Public Education Committee 403

Notes on the Management of Fisher at Burnet Park Zoo .404

Husbandry of the Giant Anteater at Reid Park Zoo 415

Nixon Griffis Award Winners 418

Growth & Development of a Tamandua at Lincoln Park Zoo 419

A New Zookeeper Association is Bom 422

Small Antelope Capture and Restraint 425

The Successful Introduction and Resocialization

of Chimpanzees 429

Zookeeper and Other staff Training in India:

Some Pioneer Efforts 432

Udderly Fantastic: An Overview of the Mammalian

Mammary System. 436

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love My

Landscape Architect. 44 1

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the Black & White

Ruffed Lemur at the Metrozoo 446

Spectacled Bear Management at Lincoln Park Zoo 458

i

Kenya Diaiy - Part 3 461

The International Center for the Preservation

of Wild Animals 463

Translocation of 1.1 Lowland Gorillas 465

Diet Notebook - the Past to the Present 470

Management of Freshwater GamefLsh at

the Milwaukee County Zoo... ....474

Destined for Survival: a Papua New Guinea Expedition .480

Bats, Beautiful Bats 485

Snow Leopard Breeding & Births at the Bronx Zoo’s

Himilayan Highlands 493

Australasia.. A Learning Experience 500

Breeding & Management of Tiger Quolls in Captivity 506

Opportunity Knocks 519

AAZK Accessories and Publications Available

Biological Values 520

Logo Belt Buckles... 521

Logo T-Shirts 522

Logo Coffee Mugs 523

AAZK Stickers 524

AAZK Keeper Training Video Tapes 525

Index for VoL XIV, Nos. 1-12, 1987 526

ii

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

Dear Members,

Just wanted to let our readers know that there is going to be a wealth of good, useful
information upcoming in Animal Keepers' Forum in 1988. Because of this special
edition of the Conference '87 Proceedings, we have had to "hold" a number of papers for
publication beginning in January 1988. Included among these will be the papers presented
at the 1986 AAZK Great Lakes Regional Conference held in May of that year. They were
recently received here at the office with a note that they had been "lost in the shuffle" and
only recently recovered. The Columbus Zoo AAZK Chapter expresses their apologies to the
presenters for the delay in publication of their papers and has pledged to prevent such an
occurrence in the future. So you can look for these papers in upcoming issues of AKF.
National AAZK also was remiss in not acknowledging the $500 donation to the
Association by the Columbus Zoo AAZK Chapter from proceeds of the auction held during
the regional. Our belated thanks to the Chapter for their past and continued support of
AAZK National.

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have contributed
articles, artwork, B&H submissions, Chapter News updates, etc. to AKF over the past
year. Without your continued support and willingness to share your knowledge and
expertise with your colleagues, AKF could not survive. We have been making a number
of changes in the Forum over the past year; most of which were precipitated by the
acquisition of the Macintosh Desktop Publishing system. The advent of computers has
brought about a lot of changes for AAZK - not just with the hopefully more professional
looking journal, but with all other aspects of AAZK business. We are still in a time of
transition and further format changes will occur as we mature with the new equipment.
We hope you have been pleased with the "new look" so far and, as always, we welcome
your suggestions and comments at any time.

We are hearing from more and more keepers all the time and this is great. If you have
been thinking about doing an article for the Forum , make 1988 the year to get it done.
Your knowledge can be multiplied many-fold by sharing it with other zoo professionals.
Learn, research, discover and then SHARE should be the keystones of professional
exchange.

We again would like to encourage those submitting articles to include photographs. We
have been able to run more this year than in the past, but would like to do more with
photographs in AKF . We are limited to black and white, but we can reproduce from color
slides converted to black and white negatives. A picture of the animal or exhibit that is the
topic of your article can add much to its impact.

This year marks the 13th year of continuous publication for Animal Keepers’ Forum .
What began as a mimeographed four-page newsletter has come a long way and with your
ongoing support we hope to continue its evolution into a professional journal in which all
AAZK members can take pride.

On a personal note, this is my sixth year as managing editor for AKF . Of the numerous
positions I have held in the publishing field, this has undoubtedly been the most
rewarding. The enthusiasm and commitment of an organization such as AAZK makes
each day a new challenge and the friendships made along the way have added frosting to
an already great cake. Here's to a productive and successful 1988!

Sincerely,

Susan D. Chan
Managing Editor

Alice Miser
Executive Editor

Ron Ringer
Associate Editor

365

Coming Events

The. International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources ( IUCN )

February 1-10, 1988 San Jose, Costa Rica

For more information contact: General Assembly Office , IUCN, Avenue du Mont-Blanc, CH-
1196 Gland, Switzerland,

AAZPA School for Professional Management Development
February 7-11, 1988 Wheeling ,W. Virginia

The 1988 Crane Workshop

February 23-25, 1988 Central Florida

For more information contact: James Lewis, USFWS, P.O. Box 1306, Albuquerque, NM 87103.

F irst Inte zmtinml W i l dlife Ranc h in g Symposium

May 16-21, 1988 La Cruces, NM

Symposium considering the conservation and economic impacts of wildlife rancliing. For more
information contact: Raul Valdez, Professor Wildlife Science, College of Agriculture and
Home Economics, Dept, of Fishery and Wildlife Sciences, P.O. Box 30003, Campus Box 4901,
Las Cruces, NM 88003-003 (505) 646-1544.

1 988 A AZP A . Re gi ona l. Co nference s

AAZPA Western Regional - 6-8 March, 1988 - for more information contact: Charles Farwell,
Aquarist/ Curator, Monterey Bay Aquarium, 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940 (408) 649-
6466.

AAZPA Southern Regional -20-22 March, 1988 - for more information contact: Al Fontana,
Assistant Director, or Gordon Hubbell, DVM, Miami Metrozoo, 12400 S. W. 152 St., Miami, FL
33177 (305) 251-0401.

AAZPA Central Regional - 10-12 April, 1988 - For more information contact: Michael LaRue,
Assistant Director, Topeka Zoological Park, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, Ks 66606 (913) 272-5821.
(This is a great opportunity to visit AAZK National Headquarters!)

AAZPA Great Lakes Regional - 24-27 April, 1988 - for more information contact: David
Lonsdale, Assistant Director, John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 South Lake Shore Drive,
Chicago, IL 60605 (312) 939-2426.

AAZPA Northeastern Regional - 1-3 May, 1988 - for more information contact: Peter
Crowcroft, Director, Salisbury Zoological Park, Box 3163, Salisbury, MD 21801 (301) 548-3188.

366

OVERVIEW OF THE 1987 AAZK
BOARD OF DIRECTOR S ANNUAL MEETING

Submitted by

Barbara Manspeaker, AAZK Administrative Secretary

and

Jean Hromadka, AAZK President

The meeting was called to order on 3 October, 1987 at 9:25 a.m. by President Jean
Hromadka. Board members present were: Frank Kohn, Oliver Claffey, Susan Barnard
and Brint Spencer. Mary Swanson, the newly elected Board member who begins her
term 1 January, 1988, was also present. Susan Chan, Managing Editor of Animal
Keepers' Forum was in attendance. AAZK Administrative Secretary, Barbara
Manspeaker, served as recording secretary. An additional wrap-up meeting was held
on 4 October, 1987 with all members present.

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS - report submitted bv Barbara Manspeaker

It was reported that as of 30 September, 1987 we had 2,217 AAZK members. This was an
increase of 205 members over what was reported last year at conference time. Two
different approaches were used to increase membership. The first simply being to
enclose a membership brochure to each person who renewed throughout the year asking
them to pass the brochure on to an interested colleague. The second approach was that 167
letters introducing AAZK to the Directors of AAZPA-member zoos were mailed. Along
with this letter a copy of AKF and membership brochures were sent.

The financial statement was submitted to the Board. It was reported that our main source
of revenue is brought in by memberships. The total revenue received through 30
September, 1987 was $44,028.36. Of this figure $34,685.50 represents membership fees.
The importance of having line items in our budget was discussed. The area of travel
expenses for Board members and AAZK personnel has always been subject to
availability. It was decided by the Board that amounts would be budgeted therefore
making our budget more accurate. It was decided that $1,000.00 would be budgeted for the
President to attend the National AAZPA conference. $1,000.00 was budgeted for AAZK
personnel to attend the National AAZK conference. A mid-year meeting of the President
and Vice-President at National Headquarters with AAZK personnel was approved, with
travel expenses budgeted for $500,000. It was decided that AAZK would continue to pay
only for Board members' registrations to AAZK National Conferences. A $500.00
annual budget for the President of AAZK was approved. Also approved was a $500.00
budget for the remaining Board of Directors. The Board approved a 750 per hour increase
in wages for Susan Chan and Barbara Manspeaker at National Headquarters.

Board members and committee heads were reminded that all receipts for expenses should
be turned in before the end of the year, because the year’s books will be closed 31
December, 1987.

Anyone planning to attend conferences throughout the year were encouraged to contact
National Headquarters and a packet of AAZK material would be provided for them. This
will help bring exposure to the organization.

ANIMAL KEEPERS'FORUM - report submitted by Managing Editor, Susan Chan

Susan reported that 1987 marked the 13th year of continuous publication for AKF. She
reported that the biggest change in the publication has come about due to the acquisition of

367

OVERVIEW OF THE 1987 AAZK BOARD OF DIRECTOR’S ANNUAL

MEETING Continued

computers at AAZK National Headquarters. Profiles on Board members were completed
and profiles on the new Board members will be in upcoming issues of AKF. Susan
requested that if possible she would like to see more photos used in AKF. She reported that
many articles had been received from international members.

The Board discussed with Susan the possibility of doing Chapter profiles in AKF. It was
suggested that perhaps the Chapter Liaison could do the interview of their Chapter and
submit this information to Susan for publication. It was also decided by the Board that
Susan's title be changed to Editor-in-Chief. Alice Miser's and Ron Ringer's new titles
will be Assistant Editors.

In comments on other publications, Susan reported the following: The Diet Notebook , the
mammal section, under the chairmanship of committee head Susan Bunn, was
completed and submitted to the Board for approval. Susan Chan had estimated figures
available for the cost of printing The Diet Notebook. There was much discussion about
this publication. It was decided that outside funding would be necessary in order for the
Association to be able to print this publication. The second, revised edition of Biological
Values for Selected Mammals II . coordinated and compiled by the keepers and
volunteers at San Francisco Zoo, has proven very popular and a good supply of this
publication is still available for sale. The supply of The Zoonoses Booklet, edited by
Bruce Clark, has been reduced to 75 remaining copies. Bruce Clark and Frank Kohn
will be working together to re-edit and revise this publication before reprinting it. The
Zoo Keeping As A Career brochure was reprinted twice this last year. It was decided by
the Board that National Headquarters should reprint this brochure as is when needed
until Headquarters hears differently from the Board. It was decided that the AAZK
Membership Directory will be printed and distributed to professional members the
summer of 1988. The directory will be made available to other categories of membership
for a nominal fee.

NOMINATION/ELECTION COMMITTEE - report submitted by Jan McCoy

The election of Board members was held this year. Two Board members were re-elected:
Frank Kohn and Oliver Claffey. The third newly elected Board member is Mary
Swanson. Brint Spencer was selected by the Board to replace resigning Board member
Kerry Hoffman.

Jan McCoy reported that she would copy all forms letters used by this committee onto a
disk and send it to National Headquarters so that all forms would be available to the next
Chairman of this committee. The Board agreed this would be an excellent idea.

The Nomination/Election Committee was handled in a most efficient and professional
manner. Jan was thanked for her work. A budget of $50 was approved for 1988.

REGIONAL COORDINATORS - report submitted by Diane Krug and Debbera Stecher

This year has brought many changes to the Regional Coordinators' system. The
Regional Coordinators have taken on the added responsibility of coordinatoring all
Chapters. There was much discussion and many special sessions held in order to bridge
the gap between local AAZK Chapters and National AAZK It was felt that better lines of
communication were needed between local chapers and National. New ways to help
keep local chapters informed were discussed and many new ideas will be implemented
this coming year through the R.C. system. A budget of $300 was approved for 1988.

CHAPTER LIAISON PACKETS - report submitted by Jean Hromadka

AAZK President Jean Hromadka requested this year that all chapters appoint a chapter
liaison for their chapter. The liaison would be responsible for reporting to National,
activities happening within their chapters. They would also be responsible for reporting

368

OVERVIEW OF THE 1987 AAZK BOARD OF DIRECTOR S ANNUAL

MEETING Continued

to their Chapters the Association's activities, therefore acting as a link between National
and the local Chapter.

Jean had prepared Chapter Liaison Packets for all Chapters represented at the
conference. These packets are available to all active Chapters through Jean Hromadka.
These notebooks are filled with information about AAZK and detail what is available to
the membership. Jean volunteered to chair this committee after her term as AAZK
President is over. A budget of $100 was approved for 1988.

HISTORY COMMITTEE - report submitted by Art Goodrich

It was reported that the "Founder’s Weekend" held in San Diego, May 5 - 7, 1987 was a
success. The "Founder's Weekend" was held to honor the original founders of AAZK.
There was approximately 150 delegates in attendance. Profits from this event were made
available for the Founders to attend the National Conference in Milwaukee. Red
Thomas, one of the original founders, represented the group at Milwaukee.

Art Goodrich requested that if anyone had any documents that they felt would be
beneficial to the History Commitee in compiling an overview of AAZK's past, to please let
him know.

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS CO O RDINATO RS - reports submitted by Pam
McDougall, IAC West, and Melba Shields, IAC East

The International Affairs position is now in its fourth year. The foreign keeper
sponsorship program which allow keepers in underdeveloped countries to become AAZK
members by being sponsored by chapters and individuals has been successful. This
sponsorship program was spearheaded by Sally Walker, an American woman who has
dedicated herself to upgrading Indian zoological institutions and their staff. Sally
Walker was in Milwaukee for the conference. She reported that the sponsorship program
has been well received in India. She did stress the importance of the International
Affairs Coordinators staying in contact with her on the status of sponsorships because of
the political climate in her country.

Sally Walker thanked the Association for contributing $150.00 this past year to her
organization (Zoo Outreach Organization) for funding of the organization's magazine,
Pashu Prem (Hindi for "Love of All Animals"). She reported to the AAZK membership
that funding for this organization to continue printing their publications was badly
needed. She hoped that AAZK Chapters might be willing to take this on as a Chapter
project.

Pam and Melba reported that they still have names available for Chapters or individuals
wanting to sponsor a foreign keeper. A budget of $100 was approved for 1988.

KEEPER EDUCATION COMMITTEE - report submitted by Pat Sammarco

Pat is the liaison with groups interested in keeper education, and is responsible for the
development of keeper education projects.

She reported on the AAZK workshop held at the AAZPA National Conference held in
Portland. A budget of $50 was approved for 1988.

PUBLIC EDUCAT ION COMMITTEE - report submitted by Jay Jasan

Jay Jasan has resigned as chairman of this committee. Ellen Bradfield, Zoo Atlanta,
will be filling this post.

Zoo Keeners in P ublic Education Survey — The survey was mailed to 221 zoos, aquariums,
nature parks and museums maintaining live animal collections in North America. 151

369

OVERVIEW OF THE 1987 AAZK BOARD OF DIRECTOR S ANNUAL

MEETING Continued

facilities replied to this survey. A detailed review of the results of this survey can be
found in the November, 1987, issue of AKF. Dale Buboltz headed this project.

Zoo Question Column - Ellen Bradfield is the coordinator of this column which runs
periodically in AKF. The column requests "Perfect" answers to frequently asked
questions and then in a subsequent issue the "Perfect" answers are published.

Zoo Keening as a Career Video - Joanie Stinson, working with Melody Cavanary, had
produced an outline and an introduction for this video. The goal of this video is to educate
the public about the zoo keeping career from the keeper's standpoint. They are ready to
begin filming of the video. Joanie Stinson will be resigning as coordinator of this
project and Susie Kasielke from the Los Angeles Zoo will be taking her place. A travel
budget was discussed with the Board. A decision will be made by the Board on this matter
as the project progresses.

Zoo Keeping as a Career Poster - It was felt that a poster would help recruit potential
keepers and also educate the public about the zoo keeping profession. This project is at a
standstill, but the Board encouraged the committee to begin working on it again. The
Board would like to see not only a poster, but also a holder on the poster in which
membership brochures could be put.

A budget for the Public Education Committee of $100 was approved for 1988.

RESEARCH/GRANTS COMMITTEE - written report submitted by Kaci Thompson

Numerous requests for grant applications and information were received. However, no
formal proposals were submitted. Kaci reports several keepers are in the process of
preparing proposals for grants.

Kaci is in the process of compiling a list of funding sources for zoo research projects for
both keepers and non-keepers. This list will be announced when it becomes available.
A budget of $1,000.00 was approved for 1988.

AWARDS COMMITTEE - report submitted by Rachel Rogers

An Awards Committee handbook was developed for the members of this committee and
the Board of Directors. This handbook was developed as a tool for better organization and
function of the Awards Committee. The Board was impressed with how comprehensive
this handbook was and expressed a desire to see all committees have the same type of
reference notebook.

Rachel reported that news releases announcing persons and facilities receiving awards
were sent to AKF, AAZPA, and CAZPA for publication in their newsletters. A budget of
$200 was approved for 1988.

AAZK LIAISON TO AAZPA AND IZE - report submitted by Brandy Pound

Brandy Pound reported on the goals and objectives of the AAZPA Public Education
Committee. Key objectives include: planning for conservation day events to be
coordinated with all AAZPA member zoos and aquariums; developing a wildlife
conservation education workshop at each regional AAZPA meeting; maintaining
communication among other wildlife conservation organizations (including AAZK).
She has been able to assist members of AAZK and AAZPA in contacting each other over
subjects of common interest and she feels that both organizations benefit from her reports
at conferences and from the connections which are made as a result of these reports. She
welcomes input relating to strengthening this liaison and particularly encourages
committee chairs to contact her with questions regarding the work of AAZPA.

370

OVERVIEW OF THE 1987 AAZK BOARD OF DIRECTOR S ANNUAL

MEETING Continued

PUBLIC RELATIONS LIAISON - report submitted by Tim Kurkowski

The Public Relations Liaison acts as an aid to the Administrative Secretary. The Public
Relations Liaison answers letters concerning careers in zoo keeping with a personal
touch, from a keeper oriented standpoint and background. A budget of $50 was approved
for 1988.

CONFERENCE BOOK COMMITTEE - report submitted by Phil Pennock

This notebook will be a reference source for people hosting or thinking of hosting a
national or regional conference. Work is progressing with this notebook. A budget of
$50 was approved for 1988.

LEGISLATIVE ADVISOR - no report submitted.

The Board will be looking for a new chairman for this committee. A budget of $50 was
approved for 1988.

ANNUAL CONFERENCES - report submitted by Ed Hansen

Ed Hansen reported that the 14th Annual AAZK National Conference to be held in
Tucson, Arizona, is progressing very well. The selected dates for the conference are
September 11-15, 1988. The AAZK Conference will be held in conjunction with the 8th
National Conference of the Association of Zoological Horticulture. The Doubletree
Resort Hotel has been chosen as the site of the conference. Room rates will be $40.00 for a
single or double room. A budget of $50 was approved for 1988.

The Board requested that they be notified one-year in advance for AAZK Regional
Conferences, and a two-year advanced notification is required for the AAZK National
Conference.

LIBRARY RESOURCES - written report submitted by Kaci Thompson

It was reported that Kaci is still serving as liaison with the AAZPA Librarians Special
Interest Group. Last year, the group initiated a program of collecting and distributing
bibliographies on zoo related topics. This program is available to all zoo professionals,
and lists of available bibliographies have appeared periodically in the AKF.

This special interest group has recently completed the 1987 edition of "Recommended List
of Books and Other Information Resources for Zoo and Aquarium Libraries". This 40
page publication lists many of the most valuable information sources for zoo
professionals, including books, journals and computer software. It is currently in press
and will be available shortly. An announcement will appear in the AKF, with details on
how this publication may be obtained. A budget of $50 was approved for 1988.

REFERENCE SEARCH - no report submitted.

This committee has been inactive, but the Board will be talking with Marilyn Cole to see
if she would be interested in taking the chairmanship of this committee. A budget of $100
was approved for 1988.

BOOK REVIEW COMMITTEE - written report submitted by Kathy Sucharitakul

Reviews have been published almost continuously during 1987. Establishing new
contacts in the publishing world and soliciting new members to serve as reviewers are on
the agenda for the coming year. A budget of $50 was approved for 1988.

371

OVERVIEW OF THE 1987 AAZK BOARD OF DIRECTORS ANNUAL

MEETING Continued

STAFF EXCHANGE COMMITTEE - report submitted by Elandra Aum

A revised access list was sent in the spring. Elandra is working on making more
contacts by contacting facilities listed in the publication entitled Lions, Tigers, and
Bears. It was suggested that when she sends out exchange report sheets, she also request
updated corrections on facilities participating in this program. Elandra requested she
would like to be made aware of exchanges that are occurring. A budget of $200 was
approved for 1988.

EXHIBIT R ESIG N .JF.QB M -- no report submitted.

Contact will be made with the Chairman of this committee regarding the status of the
Exhibit Design Form. A budget of $50 was approved for 1988.

KEEPERS ACCOMMODATIONS LIST - report submitted by Oliver Claffey

Oliver Claffey reported that the KAL continues to be used by North American keepers, but
that this year the majority of requests for assistance have come from overseas
individuals. It was decided that this list could be better kept up-to-date if it was
computerized. National Headquarters will receive this list from Oliver and proceed to
put it on the computer. The list will be available from National Headquarters in the near
future, but Oliver will also receive updates on this information. He will continue as
Chairman of this committee. A budget of $50 was approved for 1988.

PROGRAM LIBRARY - No longer active committee

APT COMMITTEE - written report submitted by Bemie Feldman

In the written report Bernie noted the major adjustment in this committee in 1987 was the
receipt of money quarterly from National Headquarters, so that costs could be paid
immediately. He reported that every three months he submits a small notice in both AKf
and the AAZPA Newsletter describing the availability of the ADT Forms. Since the last
conference he has mailed 4,060 ADT Forms. A budget of $700 was approved for 1988.

AAZK ACCESSORIES

Coffee Mugs - report submitted by Steven Wing. Steve reported that $94.60 was sent to
National for their share of proceeds from the first order of coffee mugs. Coffee mugs were
reordered, but sales have been small. Coffee mugs were available at the conference for
sale. Stickers - It was reported that the Appalachian AAZK Chapter, Mill Mountain Zoo,
is in the process of having a larger decal made available to the membership. This will be
advertised in AKF when they are available. AAZK T-Shirts - Kelli Westbrook,
representative of the Little Rock AAZK Chapter, reported that t-shirts are still available
through their chapter. She also approached the Board about whether there would be an
interest in having sweatshirts available to the membership. She received approval.
License Plates - License plates are still available from the Detroit AAZK Chapter. AAZK
Belt Buckles - Belt buckles are still available from the San Diego AAZK Chapter.
Baseball Caps - Gary Roesinger, Zoo Atlanta, reported that the supply of caps has been
depleted and a reorder will not be made.

AN APPROACH TO ZOO KEEPING - report submitted by Pat Sammarco

This notebook will be a guide for the novice or aspiring zoo keeper, as well as an
information source for the experienced keeper. A partially completed notebook was
submitted to the Board. Work on this notebook will continue in 1988. A budget of $100 was
approved for 1988.

372

OVERVIEW OF THE 1987 AAZK BOARD OF DIRECTOR’S ANNUAL

MEETING Continued

ZOO/UNIVERSITY PROJECT - report submitted by Pat Samrnarco

Pat reported that she would like to see someone else take over the responsibility of this
committee. AAZK President, Jean Hromadka, reported that she had talked with Dr.
Donna Hardy and that she was looking for someone with interest in putting a directory
together for CAUZ (Consortium of Aquariums, Universities and Zoos). Jean suggested
we incorporate our own Zoo/University list with this directory. Mike Illig from the
Portland AAZK Chapter expressed an interest in undertaking this project. A budget of
$100 was approved for 1988.

VIDEO TAPE PROJECT - written report submitted by B. Wayne Buchanan

B. Wayne Buchanan will be resigning as Chairman of this committee, December 31,
1987. Judie Steenberg will be the new Chairperson. Judie is in the process of making a
new video. The new video will be entitled The Keeper's Role in Zoo Animal Health.
She hopes to have dubs available for the Board to review in mid-December, with a tenative
release date of January 1, 1988. This committee is self-sustaining and requires no
financial support from National.

The Board thanked Wayne for his years of contribution to this project.

INFANT DEVELOPMENT NOTEBOOK - report submitted by Steve Wing

Steve Wing reported this notebook has not progressed the way he had planned this year
because of much of his extra time being spent on the planning of the 1987 AAZK
Conference. He wanted the Board to consider whether this notebook should be titled
"Infant Development Notebook" or if it should be changed to "Handbook of Parent-reared
Infants". A budget of $50 was approved for 1 988.

KEEPER TRAINING MATERIALS IDENTIFICATI O N. PROJE CT - report submitted by
Rosemary Jalink

The purpose of the Keeper Training Materials Identification Project is to aid zoos or
individuals in devising a training program for their keepers, or, to help refine an
existing training program by offering various materials.

The first phase of the project was to collect and catalogue training manuals currently in
use at zoos. This was completed and published in the October, 1986, issue of AKF. A
central library has been established at Folsom Children's Zoo through Laura Treschel,
the manual coordinator. This library was set-up for the sales and distribution of these
manuals. A list of available manuals and their cost was published in the October, 1987,
issue of AKF.

The second phase of this project will be a catalogue of video tapes that are available.
Surveys are being sent out to zoos to get an idea of how many tapes are currently in use as
a training tool. A budget of $100 was approved for 1988.

DIET NOTEBOOK - report submitted by Susan Bunn

The first draft of the Diet Notebook was presented to the Board for their approval. There
was much discussion concerning the Notebook. It was decided that outside funding
would be needed to print the Notebook. The Board approved $1,000.00 for travel expenses
for Susan Bunn to promote and solicit advertisers. The first draft has over 300 mammals
diets listed. Susan Bunn is still requesting diets, and it has been decided that when 100
diets are available a supplement to the original will be printed.

Susan Bunn thanked the many people instrumental in completing the first section of the

373

OVERVIEW OF THE 1987 AAZK BOARD OF DIRECTOR S ANNUAL

MEETING Continued

Diet Notebook. Bob Vanstrom, a volunteer from Minnesota, worked many hours
transferring these diets on to a computer. Susan Bunn requested $85 for an appreciation
dinner for Bob and his wife, the amount was approved by the Board.

Minutes of the 1987 AAZK General Membership Meeting

This meeting was held on 8 October, 1987, and was called to order by President Jean
Hromadka at 2:30 p.m. President Hromadka gave a report of the Association’s status
and committee/project heads gave brief reports on their activities and future plans.

President Hromadka announced that this being the end of her term as President, a new
President and Vice-President had been elected. Frank Kohn, keeper from the National
Zoological Park, Washington, D.C., will be AAZK's new President. The newly elected
Vice-President will be Oliver Claffey, keeper from the Metro Toronto Zoo, Westhill,
Ontario, Canada. Their two-year term will begin 1 January, 1988.

A bid to host the 1989 AAZK National Conference was presented by the Burnet Park Zoo
Chapter. The membership voted to accept Burnet Park's bid to host the conference in
1989. The 1987 Excellence in Zoo Keeping and Meritorious Achievement Awards were
presented by Awards Committee Chairperson, Rachel Rogers. The AKF Excellence in
Journalism Awards were presented by Managing Editor, Susan Chan. Jean Hromadka
presented former Board member, Kerry Hoffman, a Certificate of Recognition for his
service to the Association. She also posthumously presented a Certificate of Appreciation
to the late Larry Brainard, a docent at the San Francisco Zoo. This certificate recognized
his contribution in helping form the Greater San Francisco Bay Area Chapter and his
tireless efforts in seeing that Biological Values for Selected Mammals II became a
reality. The meeting was adjourned at 4:14 p.m. to reconvene in Tucson in 1988.

374

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) 229-771 1 [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 Zoological Park, Detroit, MI
for the states of MI, IN, KY, and OH
Chris Garland, North Carolina Zoological Park, Asheboro, NC
for the states of NC,SC,TN, and W. VA
Larry Sammarco, Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL 60614 (312) 294-4660 [w]
for the states of WI, EL, MO, MN, and IA

Tim Kurkowski, Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30315 (404) 624-5600 [w] (404) 292-6314 [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, 2355 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! They will be glad to assist you with any
information you need about AAZK.

375

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Watch this space for what's new for zoos!

Illegal Wildlife Trade:
Keep Informed

Richard Block
Director of Public Programs
World Wildlife Fund
Washington, DC

The role of keepers has changed over the past decade. The AAZK has promoted
professional development. Demands of the job have increased, raising education levels
along with responsibilities. Today keepers actively participate in the management of
j species, contribute to research on captive populations, and participate in the design process
i of improving zoo exhibits. Some of you may say "Enough is enough!", but I'm going to
| add one more area to the long list of job requirements!

1 All of you participate in educating the public whether you plan to or not. Everytime you are
| observed in your daily routine, everytime you interact with a visitor you are shaping
peoples’ view of the zoo and animals. The visitors' experience at the zoo shapes what they
understand about animals or wildlife and the environment. The more you know about the
collection and the issues facing wild populations of your captive specimens, the better the
message you can leave with your visitor and the greater the impact you can have in
promoting conservation.

Your visitors look upon you as authorities on the animals you care for and work with.
There's no reason why you shouldn't want to keep up with what's happening outside the
collection. Whether through your AAZK chapter or on your own, there are ways of keeping
up with the issues. If for no other reason, you will learn to appreciate just how significant
your role is in caring for some of the more critically endangered species.

Certainly when a visitor pops the question about why so many species are endangered and
threatened with extinction, the loss of habitat is the critical issues that comes to mind. But
there is another issue that should be of special concern to citizens of this country: illegal
wildlife trade. The U.S. is the world's largest importer of live animals and wildlife
products (over $600 million annually), so we have the greatest responsibility in making
sure that our "consumption" reflects intelligent patterns of conservation and resource
management and not the blatant depletion of species to satisfy human vanity or frivolous
whims.

The world trade in wildlife and wildlife products amounts to several billion dollars
annually, and as much as one-third of this may be illegal. With U.S. law enforcement
inspectors able to check only 25 percent of the 50,000-60,000 shipments that enter the U.S.
each year, it is not surprising that thousands of illegally imported wildlife items are sold
in American stores and pet shops everyday. The U.S. Endangered Species Act and the
Lacey Act provide the strong legal framework for enforcing wildlife trade laws. In
addition, the U.S., along with almost 100 other nations, is party to an international
convention to control wildlife trade, CITES. But despite the threat of jail sentences, large
fines and confiscations, much illegal wildlife makes its way to the marketplace. A South
American scarlet macaw ( Ara macao ) costs only a few dollars to capture, but can
command $1,500 in a pet shop. Such a profit creates a strong incentive to risk breaking the
law.

How does this illegal wildlife enter the country? While blatant smuggling, concealing
wildlife from government authorities, is one method used, more often, shipping
documents are counterfeited to disguise the origin or identity of the species. This method
is known as "laundering" and here's how it works. Every year, the U.S. imports some
800,000 birds, about one-third of them parrots. Cockatoos fetch a high retail price,
averaging $800 for relatively common species to tens of thousands for the rarer or more

377

Illegal Wildlife Trade: Keep Informed. Continued

spectacular ones. The palm cockatoo (Probosciger atterimus) . worth up to $25,000, is
protected from export in Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, the only countries
in which it is found.

A few years ago, 100 palm cockatoos were imported from Singapore by a U.S. dealer.
Singapore has virtually no wildlife of its own, yet the documents shipped with the birds
claimed they had come from Malaysia. As palm cockatoos do not occur in Malaysia,
World Wildlife Fund alerted the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that the birds had
probably come from Indonesia, and the shipment was seized.

High mortality also plagues the live bird trade. Smugglers often use crude capture and
transport techniques, and depending upon the species, only one out of every three birds
captured may reach the marketplace alive. With such high profits for these birds,
however, importers can afford heavy losses.

Reptiles are also heavily hunted for their fine patterned hides. You can find products
made from reptiles in nearly any department store or specialty catalog. Chances are they
are made from spectacled caiman ( Caiman crocodilus) . a species of alligator protected
throughout most of its Latin American range. As estimated one million caimans are
taken illegally from the Pantanal, or swamp region, of Brazil each year. When caiman
skins make it out of Brazil, they usually go to a major tanning center in Europe or Japan
for processing. The skins, once tanned, are made into shoes, handbags, and other leather
products. Such products, with their Brazilian origin obscured, arrive in major consumer
countries. With more than one million skins entering international trade each year,
caiman populations face almost certain declines.

Millions of snakes and lizards are harvested every year to supply leather for belts, shoes,
watch straps, and other leather goods, even cowboy boots. Only five or six species make up
this trade and none are captive bred in commercial numbers. Mammals too are
persecuted for their skins. The near-extinction of the tiger (Panthera tigris) . cheetah
(Acinonvx iabatus) . and snow leopard ( Panthera uncia) prompted worldwide efforts to
control trade in their fur. Strict regulations have kept most spotted cat furs out of the U.S.
in recent years, although an occasional coat is seized by Fish and Wildlife Service
inspectors.

Elephants ( Loxodonta africana and Elephas maximus ) are other mammals that have
been hard hit by international trade. Traditionally carved elephant ivory has been used
as currency, for jewelry and figurines, and for piano keys. Unfortunately, the demand
for ivory has not waned over the centuries. An estimated 30,000-40,000 African elephants
are killed each year to satisfy this international craving. Although much of this ivory is
taken and traded legally, poaching is a persistent problem. Tons of ivory tusks are
laundered out of Africa each year. Most of it travels first to India or Japan, or to ivory
dealers in Hong Kong. There it is carved and then distributed for sale throughout the
world.

If someone were to ask you which animal was in the most desperate situation as a result of
trade, I'm sure most of you would identify the rhinoceros. All five species of rhino are
endangered largely as a result of trade in their horn. Tablets, which claim to contain
rhino horn, are among the traditional Oriental medicines manufactures in Asia and
distributed throughout the world. Despite laws against the practice, such tablets were on
sale in New York’s Chinatown. By far the greatest threat to the rhino populations,
especially the black rhino (Diceros bicornis ) is the popularity in the nation of North
Yemen of daggers with carved rhino horn handles. Although it banned the import of
rhino horn in 1982, North Yemen remains the greatest consumer of rhino horn.

Less well known than elephants and rhinos, but hunted as relentlessly, are the sea turtles.
Japan, the largest consumer, imports 30 tons of tortoiseshell each year. Tortoiseshell
jewelry and other sea turtle products are popular tourist souvenirs, and such items are
among those most often seized from U.S. tourists returning home from vacation.

378

Illegal Wildlife Trade: Keep Informed. Continued

Is anything being done to control wildlife trade? One effort is World Wildlife Fund's
TRAFFIC program, established in 1979 to monitor trade and to help ensure that wildlife
imported into and exported from this country is legal. TRAFFIC is part of an
international network that now has ten offices around the world, from Japan to Australia,
to Uruguay, to Belgium. Of course, monitoring trade alone will not solve the problem. In
your role as educators, you can help inform your visitors about these important issues. As
consumers, we can all make better choices that will lessen our negative impact on
wildlife around the world.

There are a number of resources available to you that can keep you informed on this issue
and make you a good spokesperson for wildlife conservation. TRAFFIC produces a
quarterly newsletter that provides detailed information on specific species, international
laws, and major trouble spots. In addition, TRAFFIC has produced "Buyer Beware", an
informative brochure to increase consumer awareness. The brochure was sponsored by
the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the
American Society of Travel 'agents. The brochure is available in large quantities in the
event you or your AAZK chapter is interested in distributing it. TRAFFIC has also
produced a "Wildlife Trade Education Kit" that contains slides, a script, and background
information.

This month's issue of Focus. World Wildlife Fund's newsletter, is entirely dedicated to
the wildlife trade issue. A monthly publication that provides more general information
on endangered species, including trade issues, is the Endangered Species Update . This
publication is made available through the University of Michigan's Schodl of Natural
Resources. The Update contains the monthly Fish and Wildlife Service Endangered
Sp£ck.s.T££Aulc.aI.B_u.llatin,

Later this year TRAFFIC will release three new publications: Whose Business Is It? - A
Guide to International Trade in Wildlife. The International Trade in Birds of Jrey. and

Traveling Tropicals - A Study of the U.S. International Ornamental Fish-Trade. You

can obtain information on these and other special TRAFFIC reports through our offices in
Washington.

I view zoos as the most important resource for teaching our citizens about the threats facing
our natural environment. In your expanding role in the zoos and aquariums, you are an
important part of the picture that makes wildlife conservation work. Your dedication to
the care and maintenance of the collection is essential, but do not overlook your role as
educators and leaders. You can stay informed about wildlife trade issues and enhance
your ability to reach the public about this critical wildlife issue.

Once you are informed yourself, it is important to do something with that valuable
collection of ideas! Sharing your concern with visitors on a one-to-one basis during the
course of your day is one way, but there are some other options as well. Information can be
integrated into the narratives of your live animal demonstrations (i.e. elephants, sea
lions, etc.) Your AAZK Chapter could set up a display for special zoo events like a "Keeper
Day" or "Conservation Day". Your chapter might even go as far as setting up a
permanent display using articles confiscated by the Fish and Wildlife Service.
TRAFFIC has a traveling display, "Cargo to Extinction", that has been making three
-month visits to zoos across the U.S. In all, there are many options and unlimited
opportunities to play a part in these conservation activities. Your local state Fish and
Game Department representative might also be a good source of ideas or display
materials. And by all means, give us a call in Washington if we can help you in getting
one of these activities going in your zoo.

Resources:

"Buyer Beware" (free in large quantities)

TRA FFIC n & W -SMter..($10 annually)

Available from: TRAFFIC, World Wildlife Fund, 1250 24th Street, N.W., Washington,
DC 20037 (202) 293-4800

379

Treatment and Management
of Chronic Foot Problems in an
Indian Rhinoceros

By

Cyd P. Mayer, Zoo Hospital Manager
and

Ellen Saksefski, Area Supervisor Pachyderm
Milwaukee County Zoo, Milwaukee, WI

Foot lesions have been reported for approximately sixteen years on an Indian Rhinoceros
at the Milwaukee County Zoo. During that period of time, this animal was treated with a
variety of regimens ranging from daily topical treatments and foot management to
surgical and systemic treatments, as well as dietary changes. In 1986, the lesions were
found to resemble equine canker on histopathology.

Due to the size of the rhino and the nature of the disease, diagnostics and treatment were at
times quite difficult and creative. Handling, diagnosis and treatment of the feet will be
discussed in the following.

History

Milwaukee County Zoo's Indian rhinoceros, Rudra, arrived at the zoo in July of 1959 at the
age of three. Born at Basel, Switzerland, he was reported to be the first Indian rhino born
in captivity outside of Asia (Guggisberg, 1966). In 1969, he was estimated to stand 6'3" at
the shoulders and weigh approximately 7000 lbs. He was paired with a female who gave
birth to one stillborn calf in 1967, q 1 ' a in 1968 she was determined to have had a false
pregnancy. Unfortunately, this was the extent of the breeding between the two and in 1975
the female died of an intestinal blockage (Martens, 1969).

Rudra always showed a mild disposition, allowing keepers and other staff to rub his
forehead and body through the bars and from within the same enclosure. The extent of his
docile behavior was demonstrated when he was used for semen collection for reproductive
work. He was cooperative enough to allow us to manually collect semen. This
manageability allowed for much easier manipulation of his feet and medical treatment
on a daily basis.

Housing for the rhino consisted of a 25' x 25' inside enclosure, with an unbedded asphalt
floor and moderately good drainage. The enclosure was equipped with a warm water
shower. Originally, the outside enclosure consisted of a mud yard and hole. This was
later sodded and a concrete pool was cleaned twice a day when soiled.

Case History

The first notation of "sore feet" in the rhino was as far back as 1961. This report
reoccurred on an irregular basis, with the documentation poor as to which feet were
involved and what, if any, treatment was given.

In 1971, the first notation of "growth between toes" on both rear feet was recorded. At this
time the treatment was Negastat® topically twice a day. This was the beginning of a
problem which never really reached an end. The problem seemed to localize in the right
rear foot for many years, however, it did eventually progress to involve all four feet, with
flare-ups along the way. The lesions varied from superficial to deep cracks over all areas
of the foot surface as well as behind and between the nails. In later years lameness

380

Treatment and Management of Chronic Foot Problems in an

Indian Rhinoceros. Continued

occurred. For 16 years there was topical treatment, and finally surgical debridement of
the lesions. In 1985, after many years of treating for "cracks", the lesions were found to be
"reminiscent of equine canker". (Cooley, 1985).

Diagnosis and Treatments

I

As many diagnostic procedures as the rhino's gentle temperament would allow were
done. Since he would routinely lay down for his daily nap, this allowed for procedures
such as radiography, aerobic and anaerobic cultures and even blood work. We found that
by putting topical Xylocaine® on the ear vein, Rudy could be easily bled. In spite of the
patient's cooperation, nothing particularly significant was ever demonstrated by the
diagnostics. The cultures often grew bacteria, but they were almost always
contaminants. This was not surprising since it was impossible to keep him from
walking through his urine and feces. It wasn't until surgical debridement in 1985 that a
biopsy was taken and the lesions were described as "reminiscent of equine canker". At
long last there was something to treat.

Throughout the years, many different treatments were used on the mysterious "cracks".
Some of the drugs were repeated time after time, either because of signs of improvement or
because of lack of anything else to try. A list of the drugs used over the years can be seen
in Figure 1. The different medications were frequently tried at various dosages or
concentrations. The current drug of choice is oral Metronidazole®. Since it was not used
until so many years after the onset of the problem, the improvements which it offered to
this case were not dramatic.

As the lesions continued to worsen it became evident that surgical invasion was
unavoidable. This would offer the opportunity for the debridement which was so
desperately needed for improvement.

In 1985, Rudy was anesthetized with 2.8mg of M99®. He was assisted into position with
the use of blocks and tackle, and was put on a dunnage bag to help prevent capture
myopathy. He was down for one and a half hours, during which time the right rear foot
was debrided everywhere that lesions were found. There was a tremendous amount of
blood loss and the procedure was finished with two, separate pressure wraps. The last
pressure wrap was made of cotton, gauze and elastic wrap, as well as a large piece of inner
tube to offer protection to the healing foot. This was left on for about one week. Upon
removal, the bandage was seen to contain fungus and mold growth due to moisture. The
foot was not rebandaged because the animal would not cooperate.

After the surgery, the stall was kept clean of all hay and feed by placing the food in the
adjacent cage and allowing the rhino to put his head through an opening to eat. Feces were
cleaned out as soon as possible after defecation.

The lesions on the right rear foot showed almost total healing after the surgery. After five
months the cracks reopened. It seemed as though the weight of the animal and the
spreading of his feet when he stood were causing the cracks to split, never allowing
healing. It also became evident that the other rear foot was worsening.

At the end of 1986, both rear feet had begun to deteriorate. It was once again determined
that surgery was necessary. This time in addition to the debridement, it was decided to try
and put shoes on the animal. The thought was that the shoe would protect the foot, hold the
sole somewhat immobile to allow for healing of the wounds, and allow for normal toe
movement. A farrier was consulted. An attempt to make plaster casts of the rear feet for
the purpose of measurement failed. However, red dye was used and Rudy gave us some
life-sized footprints on paper from which to create his special shoes. The shoe was
designed with a lateral toe swivel to allow for the proper movement of toes and a bottom
plate which could be removed to allow for cleaning and treatment of the lesions. The plate
would also keep debris out of the wound. Once again he was anesthetized and the wounds

381

Treatment and Management of Chronic Foot Problems in an
Indian Rhinoceros. Continued

debrided. A lesion on the right front foot was debrided at this time. The shoes were applied
much like horseshoes to both rear feet. The recovery was uneventful in a heavily bedded
stall.

Within three hours, Rudy had removed the first of his new shoes. In spite of the attempts to
custom design the shoes, they were a little too long. This allowed him to step on the shoe
back with his other foot and remove the shoe. The remaining plate was hitting Rudy's
opposite leg when he walked, causing abrasions. After this plate was removed, a nail in
the shoe became loose, causing the shoe to twist and dig into the rhino's foot pad. The
second shoe was removed by the staff. Over the next three months, the feet showed
progressive deterioration.

Since Rudra's feet were hurting more, he began to lie down more, which caused severe
bedsores and abscesses over his pressure points. He also developed lumps on his side
which were sore to the touch. The areas sometimes opened as abscesses and sometimes
didn't. At the time of the second surgery these were also biopsied. They showed nothing
diagnostic. The bed sores and lumps were treated with 5% benzoate-peroxide, which did
improve the condition of the sores on the upper half of his body. A rubber mat was added to
the enclosure for padding.

He was put on systemic metronidazole for the canker, topical chloramphenicol for the foot
lesions and topical gentamicin sulfate/salicylic acid for the bed sores. The
metronidazole was mixed in applesauce and spread on top of hay. This was the only oral
medication we were able to get him to take for an extended period of time. While he was on
this combination of drugs, he suffered a sudden onset of elevated surface temperature,
excessive salivation and labored breathing. Since these symptoms could indicate a drug
reaction, all medications were discontinued.

Euthanasia

The front right foot began to show a swelling above the lateral nail. It was hot and
edematous to the touch. This eventually ruptured into a large open area. The foot was
soaked in tubs of warm water and Betadine® solution. Though he was tame, he was not
tame enough to keep the foot in place long enough for the treatment to help. A wading pool,
filled with warm water and Nolvasan® , was put into the enclosure. Though the weight of
the animal helped this treatment to get into the cracks, it was impossible to get him to walk
through the pool often enough for the treatment to be effective. Warm water hosings of the
infected, sore feet were done. Plastic bags filled with warm water and Nolvasan®
solution were tied onto his feet. At this point injectable antibiotics and painkillers were
started.

In spite of all of the tender loving care and medical attempts, Rudy became increasingly
reluctant to get up and was extremely lame on all four legs when he did. For the first time
the remaining foot had developed a lesion as well. Despite an amazingly good appetite
throughout, the rhino was showing a visible weight loss. The decision was made to
euthanize a friend and a valuable specimen.

Recommendations

In management of similar cases, certain factors must be considered. Dry housing with
good drainage is essential. A nonskid floor which is nonabrasive and/or padded could
protect skin and foot lesions. Regular and frequent cleaning of the enclosure, yard and
pool is essential. Outdoor pools should drain easily and yard substrates should be mud
free.

Because Rudra was so docile, we were able to work with him easily. Since this is highly
unusual, it is a good idea if possible to familiarize animals to: people; being touched all
over; odd objects, such as syringes, poles, tubs and plastic to name a few.

382

Treatment and Management of Chronic Foot Problems in an

Indian Rhinoceros. Continued

FIGURE 1

Drugs used throughout the treatment of Indian rhinoceros. Those bold-
faced were used repeatedly off and on through the 16 year period.

DRUGS USED

Negastat®

Kopertox®

Insulin ointment (Aquaphore®)
Verracine® & "Blue Liquid"
Acroflavin®

Sulfathiazine, oral & topical
Sulfa Solution
Alum Powder
Karlan Spray
Topazone® Spray

Granulex® Spray
Mycodex®

Nitrosol Spray
"Blue Medication"

Tincture of Iodine
50/50 Peroxide/Kopertox®
50/50 Peroxide/Betadine® sin.
5 % Formalin

5 % Formalin/Betadine® sin.

Formalin/Phenol

Chloramphenicol Ointment

Sulfamethaoxazole/

Trimethoprim

Metronidazole

Gentamicin in Salicylic
Acid Solution

Banamine® topical

Nolvasan® Gentamicin Sulfate,

injectable

Penicillin 5% Benzoate-Peroxide

383

Treatment and Management of Chronic Foot Problems in an
Indian Rhinoceros. Continued

The treatment should consist of cleaning and debriding the wounds as well as systemic
treatment. Keeping the wounds clean and dry and bandaged would be ideal.

Conclusion

Rudy carried significance in the world population of Indian rhinos which is numbered at
1500 in the wild (Bradley-Martin, et al, 1982) and 32 in North American zoos (Dee, 1987).

For the last four years, semen has been collected from this animal through numerous
methods from mild electroejaculation to artificial vaginas. The most successful method
has been manual stimulation. At this time, his semen is believed to be the only frozen
Indian rhino semen in the world. With this in mind, it is believed the knowledge that this
animal has provided us will continue, as well as the chance at propagation of the species
through artificial insemination.

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank Dr. Andrea Lenhard and Dr. Bruce Beehler not only for their time
and frustration in treating and diagnosing this animal, but also for helping us to put all of
the facts together. We would also like to acknowledge all of the pachyderm keepers,
hospital staff, and other professional consultants who put in so many years and hours to
try and make a good friend well.

References

Adams, O.R., DVM, MS. Lameness in Horses. Lea & Febinger, Philadelphia, PA. 1976.

Bradley-Martin, Esmond and Chryssee. Run Rhino Run. London. 1982.

Catcott, E.J., DVM, PhD. & J.F. Smithcors, DVM, PhD. Equine Medicine and Surgery.
American Veterinary Publications, Inc., Wheaton, IL. 1972.

Cooley, Jim, DVM, MS. Histopathology Report. University of Wisconsin, School of
Veterinary Medicine. 1985.

Dee, M. American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums Newsletter. Vol. 28,
No. 9. pp. 16-17. Wheeling, W.VA. September, 1987.

Guggiesberg, Charles A.W., S.O.S. RHINO. London. 1966

Jones, D.M. "Husbandry and Veterinary Care of Captive Rhinoceroses.” International
Zoo Yearbook. Vol. 19. pp. 239-252. London. 1979.

Martens, Roger. "Some Facts and Observations on Milwaukee's Pair of Indian

Rhinos." American Association of Zookeepers' Newsletter. Vol. 2, No. 8-9,
pp.1-2. August-September 1969.

384

WHITE OAK PLANTATION:
Rare Animal Conservation Center

By

Mac McIntyre, Keeper
White Oak Plantation
Yulee, FL

White Oak Plantation is located on 6,000 acres in northeast Florida. It is bordered to the
north by the St. Mary's river, which also serves as the boundary between Florida and
Georgia. White Oak is a private facility that is owned and operated by the Gilman Paper
Company and the Howard Gilman Foundation. The Plantation, which was originally a
slash pine plantation, also generated income from the 500 acre rice paddy just adjacent to
the river. The Plantation, obtained by the Gilman family for its timber value, soon,
because of its remoteness and beauty, became a corporate retreat. In addition to the
Conservation Center, horses, quail and turkeys are raised on the Plantation.

At this time the rare animal breeding compound encompasses approximately 300 acres of
the Plantation with additional acres under development. At White Oak we are
concentrating our energies on the breeding of ungulates, carnivores, waterfowl, cranes
and Aldabra tortoises.

For years Howard Gilman has supported conservation and research on the national and
international level. The animal program initially began at White Oak in 1975 when
Howard Gilman obtained a pair of Greater Kudu. Several animals were added in the
upcoming years and in 1982 Gilman's commitment to wildlife conservation was further
expressed by realizing the necessity of professional management. A Director of Wildlife
Conservation was brought in who has asembled a staff of zoo professionals of various
backgrounds. From this point on the program has steadily progressed from one man's
hobby to a scientifically managed program that houses over 275 mammals, five species of
cranes and over 200 exotic ducks, geese and swans.

There are many features that set White Oak apart from other private breeding centers;
generous funding, scientific management, seclusion, subtropical climate and most
important, space. It is the combination of these factors that makes White Oak Plantation
unique. Reliable funding enables us to obtain the best equipment, supply our animals
with the very best nutrition and provide the optimum in veterinary care. Because we are
not open to the general public, funds which might be relegated to cosmetics, graphics, and
specialized exhibits in urban zoos, can be channeled directly into the animal program.
This allows the animals to receive optimal care while enabling the staff complete
concentration on responsibilities. Because public considerations are not necessary, we
are able to concentrate our efforts on functional, efficient and enduring enclosures for
our animals. Our paddocks are spacious and the habitat geared to the natural needs and
requirements of the specific species to be maintained in that particular area. All fences
are vinyl coated chain link and the corrals and chute systems are constructed with 40-
year pressure treated lumber. The design of our corrals, feed chutes, and shelters are
very uniform which allows for the rotation of paddocks when necessary.

The Plantation is located about 15 miles from the nearest town and about five miles from
the nearest main road in the pinelands of northeast Florida. The animals are not
exposed to some of the subliminal environmental problems that face many species in
urban zoos. For example, air and noise pollution are practically non-existant because of
our rural location. The privacy at White Oak offers the seclusion that many captive
animals are lacking and most definitely need. Besides these features, acclimation has
never been a very big problem because we have the added advantage of a subtropical
climate that is very similar to that of the home ranges of many of the world's threatened
animals.

385

White Oak Plantation: Rare Animal Conservation Center.

Cont'd.

Space is undoubtedly the most valuable resource that rural breeding centers have to offer.
Out of necessity, zoological parks are generally urban institutions where land is at a
premium. More than adequate space offers flexibility and options not available where
only limited space exists. Maintaining large population size is of the highest priority in
the genetic and demographic management of long-term captive animal groups. In
addition, large fenced areas allow a more complete expression of behaviors or at least as
"normal" as can be expected of captive bred and raised animals. Space is very important
to many ungulates to set up and maintain territories. With more than adequate space, it
is sometimes possible to maintain herds of multiple adult males and, as with more space,
a greater tolerance is created.

Space is also very important when a birth is imminent, allowing the female to separate
herself from the group and give birth in a less stressful environment. The animals at
White Oak are provided with enough space as to not be intimidated when their pastures
and corrals are entered by animal keeping personnel or vehicles. It is the combination of
these factors which enables us to produce healthy and socially adjusted animals.

In depth records are maintained at White Oak Plantation. White Oak is accredited by the
AAZPA and is an active participant in the SSP and ISIS programs. We enjoy a
reciprocity with many zoos and related institutions, thus allowing the exchange of
information and animals through sales and breeding loans to further enhance genetic
variability of our stock. White Oak Plantation, because of its size and nature of its
collection, provides unique research opportunities. We encourage participation and
cooperation with scientists and staff in the fields of animal behavior, reproduction and
veterinary medicine.

Veterinary needs are handled by the Department of Wildlife Medicine at the University
of Florida. Plans for White Oak in the near future include the construction of an animal
clinic along with the hiring of a veterinary technician.

At White Oak methods are currently being developed to breed the Florida Panther (Felis
concolor corvi) in captivity. White Oak, which is solely funding this captive propagation
project, is working in conjunction with the Florida Game and Fish Commission in
trying to save one of the world's most endangered species. The Florida Panther
population, whose number are perhaps 30 individuals, is located in three isolated areas in
southern Florida. Florida Panthers are dangerously near extinction because of habitat
destruction, human encroachment, illegal hunting, decrease in the primary prey species,
and death on the highways. We are currently housing a five-year-old male who was
severely injured after being struck by a tractor trailer on Alligator Alley in south
Florida. After a year and a half of rehabilitation, "Big Guy" was transferred to White
Oak to become part of the Panther breeding program.

The program is to begin by trying to breed him to a close cousin, the Texas cougar (Felis
concolor stanleyana) . The resulting hybrid offspring will be sterilized and released into
various protected areas throughout Florida to determine whether these areas can sustain
Panther populations. A female Florida Panther has been captured and will be brought to
White Oak to become part of the breeding project and to help us learn more about
Panthers. We have also hand-raised two Texas cougar kittens. By doing extensive
blood, diet and immunization studies on these kittens, information was gathered that can
directly aid the survival of Florida Panther kittens in the wild.

The Conservation Center continues to develop with the completion of a Reticulated Giraffe
breeding compound designed entirely by the wildlife conservation staff. Most
construction is done in-house which allows for flexibility in design and construction.
The giraffes will be maintained in an eight-acre paddock of pine, oak and bay trees. The
paddock will be surrounded by five rows of six gauge vinyl coated wire; the uppermost at
ten feet six inches. This wire has been strung between six by six pressure treated posts,
fourteen feet apart and three and a half feet into the ground, surrounded by concrete.

386

White Oak Plantation: Rare Animal Conservation Center.

Cont'd.

Water sources have been provided out in the paddock and inside the corrals. The barn
measures 32' by 100' and is 30' tall at the peak. Compressed limerock has been chosen for
the substrate in the barn and corral areas. If necessary, the entire structure can be heated
by a propane fan forced heater. We currently house three Reticulated giraffes and
anticipate bringing in four more from three different sources to enhance our collection.

Until recently the breeding of rare animals was at times just a series of coincidental
accidents. At White Oak we are dedicating our energies and resources to make breeding
endangered species in captivity a more exact and respected science. One such success
story which we have experienced this past year was the birth of our first litter of Cheetahs
( Acinonyx jubatus) . culminating an extensive two-year program with different diets,
different enclosures and different combinations of individuals. Before the successful
birth, the same female was bred, carried a litter full term and gave birth. For some
reason the litter was subsequently eaten as only one tiny paw was recovered. As
disheartening as this was, we were still very excited about the fact that we had bred a
cheetah. When the conditions were again correct, this female was bred back and on 3
October 1986, she gave birth to five kittens. On day two the female moved three kittens to
another den. She never returned for the remaining two. On closer examination we
found that it was the runt and a sickly kitten that had been abandoned. Both kittens were
pulled at this time. One was hand-raised and the other died of digestive complications at
the University of Florida. We have introduced the hand-raised female to her siblings,
and have placed the adult female back in our breeding enclosure.

The purpose for maintaining these long-term, self-replacing captive groups ip private
breeding centers are clear. There is an altruistic need to insure the survival of species if
for no other reason than just their right to live. Additionally, they can guarantee
educational and research opportunities for future generations. And lastly, to supply
quality representative animals to public wildlife parks, zoos and other related
institutions.

At the rate the world is going there will be little room for wildlife in future years. Private
breeding centers, such as White Oak Plantation, create reservoirs of endangered
animals under controlled conditions so that these animals will not vanish. Whenever
possible though, habitats need to be saved and the public needs to be educated. Zoos in
conjunction with private breeding centers have a responsibility to aid endangered species
in any way possible before they are lost forever. Hopefully, through scientific
management, animals bred at White Oak Plantation will make an important
contribution to the survival of their individual species.

387

Polar Bear Reproduction
at the Hogle Zoo

By

Bob Dolan

Animal-Veterinary Technician
Hogle Zoo, Salt Lake City, UT

Captive, reproductive husbandry of Ursids has been documented in a number of books and
journals. The intent of this paper is to support some of this research in an updated, current
accounting of the successful breeding of captive Polar Bears (Ursus maritimus) .

In November 1985, Hogle Zoo, in Salt Lake City, UT, enjoyed its first successful birth of a
polar bear cub, a female. This event was the culmination of months of effort by several
cooperating departments of the zoo's staff. The professional reward of this
accomplishment is obvious. The bonus was the opportunity to watch and learn from the
behavior of the sow and cub during the first eighteen months of new life.

This account can now be written as a complete study of the efforts of the staff prior to the
birth and continue throughout the cub's first year and a half of development, its shipment
to another park, and the eventual re-introduction of its parents to one another.

The Spring of 1985 represented the first year that the seven-year-old pair of unrelated
polars began to display breeding interest in one another. The "courtship" behavior
amounted to the male persistently badgering and following the female all around the
exhibit so that he could gain position behind her.

On 17 March, the first mounting attempts to breed were witnessed. In the ensuing days
additional attempts to mate were recorded. Involved staff members met and discussed the
situation. It was decided to pursue the opportunity to support a captive birth, and a list of
necessary priorities was agreed upon. First and foremost on the list was design and
construction of a maternal cubbing den, and a separate isolated holding area in which the
prospective father could be housed if indeed the project proved successful.

Female ursids share a characteristic with some felines in that if they feel insecure in
their maternal environment for any reason they may very likely turn on their offspring,
destroy them, and usually eat them. Therefore, some construction was required to
increase the sense of security and ensure a higher degree of peace and quiet in our off-
display bear holding area.

The in-house maintenance department designed and built a concrete type of pill box unit
with a den. The size of the maternal den was kept small to enhance the sense of security
for the expectant sow. The floor space was limited in area to allow enough room for an
adult female to turn around. The maternal den was built adjoining a door to a larger outer
den. A sliding, reinforced sheet metal door divides the two dens, as well as a small,
hinged access door to the maternal den. This design is handy in providing means of
separation of the sow and cub to allow safe access to the cub if necessary.

At this time some general reconstruction of an exhibit adjoining the bear area was
underway. A separate, secure holding area was designed and contracted to be built as part
of this renovation. This enclosure was built with the size and strength of ursids in mind;
however, it has become a valuable off-display holding area for a variety of animals when
not in bear use. The timely completion of these two construction projects allowed us to wait
on the calendar until the proposed denning date arrived.

388

Polar Bear Reproduction at the Hogle Zoo. Continued

The gestation period of polar bears is varied, from seven to nine months due to a delayed
implantation of the blastocyst that is created by the sperm and egg uniting. Scientists have
debated that this physiological design has adapted to take advantage of weather and
natural conditions in the Arctic. Under the conditions of captivity it was decided to den
the sow up at a time to meet the minimum timelapse. Observing the minimum proved to be
very prudent because the sow was denned on 31 October, and she cubbed on 4 November.

The arrival of the long anticipated cub was identified audibly. A hungry bear cub can be a
noisy little animal as it cries and complains in high pitched squeaks and whines. For the
first five to six weeks, the cub's voice was our only indication that things were seemingly
all right. To interrupt at this critically early time for any reason short of something life
threatening did not justify the very real threat of infanticide.

A routine of daily checks was established at the same time each day by the two or three
keepers involved with the bears. The same time each day conditioned the sow to the
recognition of the "head count" each day by whomever was on duty. The first six weeks
were limited to relying on the cub's vocalizations. Eventually, by peering through a crack
between the outer den wall and the keeper access door, she could be seen crawling around
her mother.

In late February the cub was fifteen weeks old and we were out of the woods. The door to the
den was opened, allowing the eager sow to leave the den area while remaining off-display
and away from the male. This provided the first opportunity for the staff veterinarian to
get a "hands on" physical exam and sexual identification of the cub. It also provided a
chance to change the alfalfa bedding in the maternal den. The mother had not been fed
throughout these months in an effort to duplicate wild conditions. She did have access to a
trickle of water in the outer den to ensure she had it if she needed it, since snow melt is not
available in a concrete den.

The ravenous sow was fed herring and mackerel in small amounts, initially of three to
four pounds per day, gradually increasing to adult dietary requirements. Surprisingly,
the spunky cub (she tried to bite the vet!) also pulled on some offered fish and shredded off
small strips of meat. The next six week acclimated the sow to the presence of a limited
number of people around her and her 25-30 pound cub.

It was a proud happy day when the media announced the 15 April turnout date for the
mother and daughter to meet the public. Early on the morning of 15 April, the father was
shifted out of the exhibit and well away from the denning area. The two females were
released into the exhibit area to be greeted with the oohs and ahhs of the excited public.
Above and beyond the zoological contribution, the "draw value" and excitement that the
cub provided, more than made all the work and expense worthwhile. The play and antics
of the maturing cub could be a descriptive paper in its own right. Her learning to swim,
playing with the keepers hosing the exhibit, or just sleeping cuddled up next to her mother,
all endeared her to the zoo's visitors.

The Denver Zoo was the first institution to express a desire to obtain the cub. However,
shipment was delayed to allow for completion of construction of their new "Northern
Shores" exhibit. The time of separation of mother and daughter arrived during the cub's
eighteenth month. This time span was close to simulating the two years that these bears
spend parenting in the wild.

The cub was separated, darted to allow a quick physical, warmed, weighed, and crated for
the drive to Denver. She proved to be a large, strapping healthy 295-pound animal which
the Denver staff was pleased to receive and we were proud to offer.

The following day, after approximately 36 hours of isolation for the sow to mourn, the two
adult bears were reintroduced to one another. Naturally the female was insulted and

389

Polar Bear Reproduction at the Hogle Zoo. Continued

indigent at this intrusion. She begrudgingly gave up every foot of the exhibit to the male. |
However, they did little more than assert their opinions to one another. Both seemed to
respect the potential of the other and no serious threats of fighting erupted.

The reintroduction took place in April, right at the time of prime breeding season. It was
just over two weeks before the female cycled into estrus (judging from the male's j
behavior). The pattern of courtship, arguing and positioning took place, and the end of i
April presented several days of hearty, active breeding.

As this paper is written we are once again awaiting and preparing for a birth expected in |
December. The sow's girth has increased and her behavior is indicative of the 1985
pregnancy. Perhaps after this current experience runs its course, we will avoid a third,
immediate pregnancy, thus allowing the sow a break from the rigors of motherhood.

This narrative has been more descriptive than technical. It is written with the thought to
encourage someone who is contemplating a reproductive management program of polar
bears. As mentioned in the opening remarks, technical text is available, often found in
animal related libraries, as well as past issues of International Zoo News .

Information Please

Information is needed on the incidence, observation, and treatment of "Constricted Toe
Syndrome" in captive avian species. Any assistance regarding this condition would be
greatly appreciated. Please send information to: Julia Green, Senior Keeper, Vancouver
Public Aquarium, P.O. Box 3232, Vancouver, B.C., Canada V6B 3X8.

I am currently working on a project to develop a training tape for Zoo Atlanta's narrative
programs. If you think your zoo has an excellent program, especially an elephant show,
please let me know. I would like a video tape copy of your show, and would even send you
a blank video tape. I would also like a copy of your script. If you are interested, please
contact: Brenda Brochstein at 3420 Pine Meadow Road, Atlanta, GA 30327.

Due to acquisition of Cuis ( Galea musculoides) for our education department, we are in
need of information concerning their life history. In addition, information about
husbandry of this species would be greatly appreciated. Please send replies to: Ron
Schulze, Sunset Zoological Park, 11th & Poyntz, Manhattan, KS 66502.

&

390

Hand-raising an Andean Condor
at the Potawatomi Zoo

By

Lawrence Sorel, Assistant Director
Carolyn Boudreau, Animal Keeper
Potawatomi Zoo, South Bend, IN

On 9 September 1985, the Potawatomi Zoo received a pair of Andean condors CVultur
prvphus) on breeding loan from the Lincoln Park Zoological Garden. They were placed
in an off-display area and Carolyn Boudreau, our most experienced raptor keeper, was
assigned to care for them. Basic care of Andean condors does not vary greatly from any
large bird of prey, however, we elected to maintain this pair off-display in order to
maximize our chances of successful breeding. As Carpenter states, "Condors in general,
appear to be reasonably tolerant of their caretakers, although seclusion and protection
from unaccustomed disturbances are probably important factors in ensuring a successful
breeding program." (Carpenter, 1982). Even though this pair did have a history of egg
laying at Lincoln Park, and some of their eggs did prove to be fertile, no chick survived
more than a few days (See Figure 1).

In January of 1986, the condors began to show some pair-bonding behavior. Because the
female was not allowing the male to eat and also to increase the chances of a fertile egg,
the basic diet being fed to the birds was changed. They had been getting 4.5kg of Nebraska
Brand® Birds of Prey Diet and 4.5kg of raw chicken necks. This was supplemented with
rats, guinea pigs or chicks on a daily basis in order to provide a variety of food to stimulate
more activity. Bonemeal was also added to the diet at this time to reduce the possibility of
eggshell thinning. Past records indicated that several eggs had been broken and this
kind of supplement had previously proven successful in bald eagles (Sorel, 1984).

Because this pair had never successfully incubated their eggs, preparations were made to
artificially incubate any egg that was laid. Courtship and breeding continued from 15
January to egg laying on 10 April when the egg was found on the bare ground just inside
the keeper access door. The pair made no effort to protect the egg and it was removed and
placed in an incubator. The incubator used was a non-labeled, unsophisticated one. In
fact, all egg turning was by hand and humidity was "controlled" by using water crocks.
Temperature and humidity settings were those used by the New York Zoological Park
(Bell, 1977).

The egg was not weighed or candled until the 15th day, at which time it weighed 314.6 gm
and had a small dark mass on one side. By day 21 the dark mass was growing larger and
there were definite air pockets on the caudal and cephalic ends. On day 49 there was no air
pocket in the caudal end and the entire interior of the egg was dark (See Figure 2). The
chick began pipping on 3 June when a dime- sized hole was noted. No serious chipping was
done for 57 hours. This is not unusual in that Andean condors exhibit an inactive period
following the initial attempts at pipping. During this time the chick and egg were misted
to prevent the egg membrane from drying and sticking to the chick. The chick finally
hatched on 6 June at a weight of 218.25 g. The chick was placed in a stone crock with rags,
this was then placed in a baby incubator set at 94° F and 64% humidity.

"Carlotta", as she came to be known, was fed for the first time 21 hours after hatching
using a female condor puppet made by some local puppeteers. This puppet was used for
several weeks until a pair of puppets arrived from The Padre Puppeteers in San Diego, CA.
The basic diet was that used by Johst (1964), with some modifications (See Figure 3). The
crop was always checked prior to feeding to make sure it had emptied. This diet was
increased as the chick's appetite increased.

391

Hand-raising an Andean Condor at the Potawatomi Zoo.

Coat'd

FIGURE 1

Egg laying history of Andean condors currently housed at the Potawatomi Zoo.

1978

May 11 - cracked

1977

January 12 - cracked
April 12 - broken
April 12 - broken

1978

January 13 - broken

1979

February 14 - dead embryo

1980

Moved to Children's Zoo (Lincoln Park Zoo) - no eggs laid

1981

No eggs laid
1982*

April 11 - hatched June 6

June 1 - pipped July 22, hatched July 24

1983

May 10 - ?

1984

March 18 - clear
April 30 - hatched June 27

1985

April 1 7 - clear

No chick survived more than a couple of days.

*M eggs were pulled for artificial incubation after this date.

392

Hand-raising an Andean Condor at the Potawatomi Zoo.

Cont'd

FIGURE 2

At the age of 10 days, the chick was placed in her brooder box. Since the chick was not to be
on public display we used a closed circuit video camera and monitor to allow the public to
see the activities of Carlotta. Most of the time they only saw a small lump of dark down
and feathers lying at the base of a condor puppet set in the brooder to keep her company. But
four times a day they could see the feeding and cleaning procedures. The puppets were
removed and added several times a day to provide more stimuli and one (usually the
female) was left in overnight. The puppets would peck and preen the chick who usually
reciprocated the behavior. Carlotta was moved back and forth to opposite sides of the
brooder for cleaning to mitigate human contact and after eight weeks she grew relatively
used to the procedure.

393

Hand-raising an Andean Condor at the Potawatomi Zoo.

Cont'd

FIGURE 3

ANDEAN CONDOR DIET

Ingredients:

45 gm Nebraska Brand Bird of Prey Diet

5cc Water

1/2 Entozyme tablet

1 Calcium lactate tablet

1 Drop pet-tinic

1 Drop quintrex

Preparation:

Grind entozyme and calcium tablets very fine, sprinkle on meat. Add water, pet-tinic
and quintrex. Mix thoroughly.

Food Intake Per Feeding For First 28 Days:

Dav

Amount Consumed

2-4

8-10 gm

5-7

15-20 gm

8-10

30-35 gm

11-13

30-40 gm

14-16

60-60 gm

17-20

40-90 gm

21-28

50-100 gm

Diet Changes:

As the chick grew the diet was altered to accommodate a greater demand for protein.
Weight Qf Chick Changes in Animal Protein

300 gm

45 gm Bird of Prey Diet (BOP)

25 gm Rat Pinkies (RP)

400 gm

40 gm BOP, 55 gm RP

500 gm

40 gm BOP, 80 gm RP

700 gm

45 gm BOP, 90 gm Ground Rat (GR)

1000 gm

50 gm BOP, 150 gm GR

2000 gm

150 gm BOP, 2 mice, stop entozyme

394

Hand-raising an Andean Condor at the Potawatomi Zoo.

Cont'd

FIGURE 4

6JUN 20JUN 4 JUL 18 JUL 1AUG 15AUG 29AUG 12SEP 26SEP
13JUN 27JUN 11 JUL 2 5 JUL 8AUG 2 2 AUG 5SEP 19SEP 30CT

Two days after being moved to the brooder, Carlotta refused to eat and a white substance
was noted around her nares. She also appeared to be shivering and was sneezing. Since
the brooder box temperature could not be raised sufficiently (above 85° F), it was decided to
put her back in the baby incubator. Her weight was 340 gm at the time and over the next two
days she lot 16 g. She was started on treatments for an upper respiratory infection - .lcc
Tylosin® liquid one time a day. She was not interested in food or the puppets so in order to
keep her hydrated she was force-fed 2-4cc of warm water once an hour for twelve hours.
She was then fed a broth made from rats and sterile water to provide some nutrition as well
as water. Although the crop was distended before each feeding during this time, when it
was palpated it seemed full of air. By the third day of this regimen, Carlotta began to be
more alert and even responded to the puppet by eating some food on her own. Five days

395

Hand-raising an Andean Condor at the Potawatomi Zoo.

Cont'd

from the onset she was eating normally and by day seven she was up to 429 gm and the
medication was discontinued. However, she was not moved back to the brooder box until
her 20th day of life.

From here on out her life proved to be quite uneventful. Of course, her diet was increased
and modified as she matured. On 29 September at 120 days she weighed 8711 gm (See
Figure 4) and was transferred to the Alexandria Zoo, Alexandria, LA.

An egg was laid in 1987, however it turned out to be infertile.

Future plans for the Andean condor at the Potawatomi Zoo will include moving them to a
large display in our South American Section. This will involve putting a nylon mesh net
over the top of our existing coati display. We are looking forward to being able to move the
birds this fall to allow them sufficient time to recover from the move before the 1988
breeding season. The remodeling involved will be paid for in part by a grant from the
South Bend Audubon Society.

Literature Cited

Bell, J. 1977. Hand Rearing a Condor and a King Vulture at the New York Zoological
Park. Cage and Aviary Birds, 45.

Carpenter, James. 1982. Medical and Husbandry Aspects of Captive Condors: A Model
for the California Condor. Annual Proceedings of the American Association
of Zoo Veterinarians, 1982.

Johst, E.U.G. 1964. Kuntliche Erbrutung und Aufzucht Rabegeirn (Coragyps atratus )
Bechst. im Zoo Berlin.

Sorel, Lawrence. 1984. The Successful Hatching and Subsequent Release to the Wild
of a Bald Eagle. AAZPA Regional Conference Proceedings 1984.

Products Cited

Entozyme® tablets.
Tylosin® liquid
Quintrex®

Calcium lactate
Pet-tinic®

A.H. Robbins, Richmond, VA.

Elanco Products, Div. of Ely Lilly, Indianapolis, IN.

Research Associates, Inc., Whitley, IN.

Distributed by American Stores Buying Co., Salt Lake City, UT.
Beachem Laboratories, Bristol, TN.

396

9

Hand-Rearing and Reintroduction
of a Mandrill Baboon

By

Jill Hickey and Leslie Wood
Zookeeper I

Reid Park Zoo, Tucson, AZ

In June of 1986, the Reid Park Zoo acquired a nine-year-old female mandrill ( Papio
sphinx) "Suzie", from the Milwaukee County Zoo. After quarantine, Suzie was
introduced to our two-year-old female "Geraldine". Together the two were transferred
from the animal health center and successfully introduced to our single male on exhibit.

During Suzie's first three months on exhibit, keepers noted that she was thin and did not
cycle. We did not suspect her to be pregnant until the morning of 3 October 1986, when she
gave birth. The infant was observed to be active and nursing. Both mother and infant
behavior appeared normal.

Eight days later, the infant appeared debilitated, with its left arm rotated, dangling at its
side. After careful observation, the decision was made to pull the infant. During the
course of the capture, Suzie rejected the infant by hurling it to the ground, subsequently
inflicting bite wounds to its head. The infant was immediately transferred to the animal
health center for treatment.

The veterinarian's examination found the infant to be a female. She was dehydrated and
uremic. Her body temperature was 95.7° F (35.4° C) (normal mandrill body temperature
is 95.9°-99.9° F. She weighed 518 grams (11 lbs. 2.5 oz.). X-rays proved the left shoulder to
be dislocated.

Our veterinarian administered 30 ml 5% dextrose, S.Q., and 1.0 cc procaine penicillin
injectable. The infant was placed in an incubator at 88°-92° F (31.1°-33.3° C), and given a
furry surrogate to grasp.

Due to the condition of the infant, she was cared for on a 24-hour basis, rotating between
three keepers' homes. During the first night, small amounts of formula (50/50 Similac™
and water) and diluted Gatorade ™ were offered. Feeding was accomplished through an
eye dropper, because the infant's suckling response was absent. A mere 47 cc of fluids
were ingested that night.

The following morning, the infant was hypothermic, with a temperature of 91° F(32.8° C).
Sixty milliliters of 5% dextrose were administered S.Q. The infant was started on .2 cc
oral amoxicillin, twice a day, for six days. Our veterinarian then consulted with a local
orthopedic MD., to set and wrap the dislocated shoulder. The left arm was immobilized
across the chest with gauze and vetrap™. This proved to be uncomfortable and stressful to
the infant.

The second day proved equally unsuccessful in feeding. Three nipple varieties later, the
suckling response was still absent. Feeding time became a struggle for both keeper and
infant. More calories were exerted by the infant's struggling than were consumed
during feeding. At this point we consulted with the Tucson Medical Center infant
nursery.

The hospital staff was very enthusiastic and helpful. We were taken into the intensive
care unit of the nursery. There we were instructed in the care and feeding of debilitated
infants. The method of gavage feeding was demonstrated to us on a non-suckling infant.
A Davol™ plastic feeding tube was inserted through the mouth, directly into the stomach.

397

Hand-Rearing and Reintroduction of a Mandrill Baboon. Continued

This method is stress free, and requires no energy output. The nursing staff
recommended feeding Enfamil ™ premature 24 formula to our infant mandrill. This
formula is higher in calories and electrolytes than regular formula. The hospital also
prescribed Twiston™ premature nipples. They are smaller and more supple than
normal nipples and not available in stores.

Approximately 15 cc of Enfamil™ premature 24 was gavage fed every three hours around
the clock. The infant (now named Hailey) was left to rest between feedings. This proved
to stabilize the infant and promote weight gain.

The next day, Hailey was remarkably stronger. Without struggle she swalllowed
formula from an eyedropper. The infant accepted 30 to 45 cc of formula every three hours.
Finally, six days after pulling Hailey from her mother, she began to suck on a preemie
nipple. We continued to feed Enfamil™ premature 24 for six days. On the seventh day,
we switched the infant to Enfamil™ low iron formula.

Confident that Hailey's body temperature had stabilized, we removed her from the
incubator, and placed her in a 9" x 12" wicker basket. The basket was cushioned with
towels, a heating pad, and numerous pieces of artificial fur. The fur became Hailey’s
security blanket. She was only content when allowed to grasp her furry surrogate.

Newborn disposable diapers were placed on the infant for general cleanliness purposes.
We found Desitin™ ointment helpful in combating diaper rash. At one point, diaper rash
became severe to the callosites. Diapers were then removed to expose the area to air.

Proper nutrition and care brought about a change in Hailey's physiological and
psychological condition. She began to display normal infant behavior. Her keepers
noted reaching, touching, tongue movement, thumb and object sucking, eye contact, and
grasping. Throughout the day the infant was encouraged to play and interact with her
surrogate families. At night her contact with humans was kept to a minimum.

The bandage to the dislocated shoulder was removed after ten days. The left bicep muscle
had slightly atrophied. This did not prove to be a hindrance. Hailey used her left arm
with remarkable strength and agility. Her posture and play behavior increased
dramatically. For the first time she displayed the typical mandrill smile.

At twenty -four days of age, it became necessary to transfer the infant to a large laundry
basket, where she could move and play more freely. Hailey practiced standing and
jumping along the basket's edge. An infant activity center, along with numerous toys,
improved her motor skills.

When Hailey reached one month of age, baby cereal was added to her formula. We also
offered her small pieces of soaked monkey biscuit and various skinless fruits.

At six weeks of age, we began to wean Hailey. Feedings were no longer continued around
the clock. She was offered her last bottle at 9:00 p.m. (2100 hrs.)

It became increasingly apparent that Hailey was becoming too attached to her keepers.
The decision was made to return the infant to the zoo, and expose her to her own species.

Once at the zoo, the infant was placed in the health center in a 50" x 50" diamond mesh
cage. The cage was lined with foam rubber and equipped with a PVC jungle-gym and
numerous toys. A small airline carrier was installed as a hide box.

Upon Hailey's arrival, our two-year-old mandrill, Geraldine, was transferred to the
animal health center where she was placed in an enclosure across from Hailey's. The
two could easily view one another.

Hailey was unhappy and insecure in her new surroundings. She frantically grasped her
furry surrogate, screamed and suffered from stress induced diarrhea. Geraldine,
however, found Hailey most intriguing and made numerous attempts to greet her.

398

Hand-Rearing and Reintroduction of a Mandrill Baboon. Continued

Day Number Two, we found Hailey to be more settled. She returned Geraldine's friendly
greetings and began to explore her new cage. When insecure she would retreat to her hide
box, artificial fur in tow.

Painful as it was to both the infant and her keepers, human interaction was reserved for
feeding time. Ground monkey biscuit was added to the current formula mixture. Hailey
was fed every three hours, beginning at 7:00 a.m. (0700 hrs.) and ending at 7:00 p.m. (1900
hrs.). Soaked monkey biscuit, cooked vegetables, and fruits were increased as the
formula was decreased.

On 31 March 1987, at approximately seven months of age, the infant was completely
weaned from formula. Hailey’s diapers were removed. She appeared to be well adjusted
psychologically, physically healthy, and ready for reintroduction.

In preparation for reintroduction, the following steps were completed:

1) A "howdy" door was installed adjacent to the slide door in the enclosure
connected to Geraldine’s. The door consisted of two 3' x 3' pieces of 1" welded wire, set 4
inches apart. This was to allow the mandrills to observe each other without touching.

2) Three large tree branches and a small cage for security were placed inside
Hailey's future enclosure.

3) The infant mandrill was transferred from her present cage to her new
enclosure.

For the following 14 days we entered Hailey's enclosure for one hour sessions. During
this time the infant continued to interact with her keepers. At the same time she was
observed watching Geraldine through the "howdy" door.

The "howdy" door proved to be a useful tool during reintroduction. The mandrills were
able to initiate and carry out play behavior, while still protected from one another. No
aggression was observed from the pair. They kept a watchful eye out for each other,
exchanging "smiles" frequently. When Geraldine could not see Hailey, she would emit
an alarm call. It was apparent the two were beginning to form a bond.

The day chosen for reintroduction was 28 April 1987. Foraging items, such as straw,
raisins and nuts were placed on the floor of both mandrill cages. Prior to opening the
slide door adjoining both mandrill enclosures, both animals were given access to their
outdoor holding areas. One keeper entered Hailey’s side of the enclosure, carrying a
plunger. This keeper was to act as a mediator, and provide security for the infant. Two
keepers remained outside the enclosure, armed with water hoses.

The slide door adjoining the two enclosures was then opened. Geraldine entered Hailey’s
side first. Once inside, Geraldine did not immediately approach Hailey or the keeper, but
instead began to explore. Almost immediately, Hailey rushed toward Geraldine, who,
alarmed by her sudden movement, retreated to the top of the enclosure. Hailey then
nervously ran back to the keeper for security. Hailey's rushing behavior, intermittent
with both animals foraging, continued for the next 20 minutes. We interpreted
Geraldine's actions to be non-aggressive toward the infant. The session ended after 35
minutes and both mandrills were then separated.

Sessions ranged in length from one to four hours. Keepers no longer entered the infant
mandrill enclosure, but instead observed from outside. Hailey, with hair erect, continued
to nervously chase Geraldine. Periodically, Geraldine grabbed at Hailey but released the
infant immediately when she screamed.

399

Hand-Rearing and Reintroduction of a Mandrill Baboon. Continued

Slowly, Hailey began to calm down. The mandrills started to sit closer to one another,
and Hailey learned to mimic Geraldine's behavior. The two were observed exchanging
"smiles", and displaying submissive posture. Chasing became less aggressive and
more playful.

Hailey's instincts to groom Geraldine started early. However, any attempts made by
Geraldine to groom Hailey were not readily accepted. In time, the infant did relax
enough to allow Geraldine to groom her.

Six days after the initial reintroduction, the mandrills were no longer separated after
each session. The pair were to remain together on a 24-hour-a-day basis. As time passed,
Geraldine became protective of the infant. Hailey, in turn, found new security with
Geraldine and was often observed clinging to her body. By all appearances, the pair had
established a normal relationship.

Utilizing the "howdy" door and same procedures, we are currently introducing our adult
male mandrill to Hailey and Geraldine. Although still nervous, Hailey is slowly
adjusting to his presence. We are pleased with Hailey's progress thus far.

The hand-rearing of a non-human primate is a time-consuming but rewarding
experience. In retrospect, the information we received from the Tucson medical
community was invaluable to the successful rearing of our infant mandrill. Under
similar conditions we would recommend the use of Enfamil™ premature 24 formula
combined with gavage feeding. Other companies manufacture comparable premature
formulas if Enfamil™ is unavailable. Due to the highly favorable outcome of the
reintroduction process, we would utilize the same procedures if a future need arises.

Products Mentioned in the Text

Similac™: manufactured by Ross Laboratories, Columbus, OH 43216

Enfamil™: manufactured by Mead/Johnson, Evansville, IN 47221

Gatorade™: manufactured by Stokeley-Van Camp Inc., Chicago, IL 60654

Twiston™ (nipples); manufactured by Ross Laboratories, Columbus, OH 43216

Desitin™: manufactured by Leeming Division, Pfizer Inc., New York, NY 10017

Vetrap™ (bandaging tape): manufactured by Animal Care Products/3M, St. Paul, MN
55144.

Hi-vite™ (liquid vitamins): Evsco Pharmaceuticals Immunogenetics, Inc., Buena, NJ
08310

Davol™ Inc., (premature infant feeding tube, plastic, 5 fr., 15" long, marking "8" from
distal end): Davol Inc., 100 Sockanosett Crossroad, Cranston, RI 02920.

400

How We Keep Our
Gorillas Occupied

By

Marilyn Cole , Keeper Grade 3
Metro Toronto Zoo , Toronto , Ontario, Canada

"There is not the slightest reason to hope that an adult Gorilla, either male or female, ever
will be seen living in a zoological park or garden. ..It is unfortunate that the ape that, in
some respects, stands nearest to man, never can be seen in adult state in zoological
gardens; but we may as well accept the fact-because we cannot do otherwise."

This is a quotation from an article written in 1915 by William T. Hornaday, then the
director of the New York Zoological Park. In the ensuing seventy-odd years since then,
happily the situation has changed dramatically to the point where the death of a gorilla
( Gorilla gorilla gorilla ) in a zoo is reported as a newsworthy, unusual occurrence. We
now have a much clearer understanding of gorilla social behavior, diet, health
requirements and psychological needs.

One of the greatest husbandry problems facing zoo personnel in the keeping of gorillas is
the boredom factor. Indeed, the same can be said of most non-human primates, as well as
many other species kept in captivity. I would like to share with you some of the methods
utilized at the Metro Toronto Zoo in an effort to stimulate our gorillas and keep them
content.

First and foremost, a sociable animal like a gorilla should not be kept in isolation from
its peers. Anything we provide in the way of activity cannot duplicate the invaluable
interactions occurring constantly between individuals in a group. Therefore, all efforts
at introduction of a single animal to other gorillas should be made, even if this involves
some risk to the individual. Naturally, it goes without saying that any introduction
should be done gradually, with careful observation of the reactions of each animal.

At the Metro Toronto Zoo we currently keep 2.5.1 lowland gorillas, utilizing separate
indoor and outdoor exhibits for them. The indoor exhibit is asymmetrical in design,
shaped more or less like a giant colon, 186 sq. m. (2,000 sq. ft.) in size, with concrete
floors for proper disinfection. The visitors watch the gorillas through 2.54cm (1") thick,
bulletproof glass, providing a good block from any possible contamination of disease,
while yet satisfying the visitors' desire to see the animals. Within the exhibit is a pool
used for bathing frequently in the hot summer months, and an elaborate metal climbing
structure containing four platforms at various heights, so that the gorillas can rest above
the ground. The males tend not to use the platforms, and thus the females have a place to
sit away from the males when desired. Ropes are attached to the climbing structure to
stimulate movement and to provide other avenues of escape if needed.

At the eastern end of the exhibit thick, horizontal wooden poles are attached to vertical
poles about 1.52m (5 ft.) above the ground, providing an alternate means to get from one
area to another, and also providing a method to get to the wire mesh ceiling. When food is
thrown over the top at lunchtime, some pieces get lodged on top, and the gorillas are forced
to exercise by climbing to the ceiling to obtain this food.

The outdoor exhibit is 286 sq. m. (3,075 sq. ft.) and stands approximately 6.09m (20 ft.) in
height. The perimeter is primarily very strong 7.62cm (3") wire mesh, with glass
viewing windows at either end. Visitors are kept 1.52m (5 ft.) away from the guardrail

401

How We Keep Our Gorillas Occupied. Continued

and cotonester planting bed, and mosquito screening has been added to prevent objects
from being thrown in to the gorillas. We have successfully maintained grass in the
exhibit by periodic replanting, and a large fiberglass pool provides relief from the heat in
summer. Heavy ropes and a large tractor tire have been attached between the triangular-
shaped wooden platforms. At a height of approximately 4.57m (15 ft.), horizontal poles
have been erected so that the gorillas can look out over neighboring exhibits, such as the
mixed rhino/zebra/ostrich/kudu exhibits.

There are two separate entrances from both indoor and outdoor exhibits into the night
quarters, which consist of ten individual cages. Each cage has a heated floor, a skylight
and a raised sleeping platform on which wood wool (also known as excelsior) is placed to
provide nesting material. Wood wool, hay, straw and wood shavings are also placed in
the indoor exhibit for occupational activity.

Apart from the fixed physical aspects of the exhibits, we provide a number of other things
that add variety and interest to the everyday routine of our gorillas. These can be broadly
broken down into two categories: food and non-food. In the wild, gorillas spend a good
deal of their day moving about from place to place foraging for food and resting along the
way. We provide our gorillas with three main meals per day, consisting of a wide
variety of fruits and vegetables ranging from apples to mangoes, monkey chow, yoghurt,
cottage cheese and orange juice. But in addition to these meals, we scatter other food
items around the exhibits. These are low in caloric content and include chopped celery,
cabbage and bean sprouts placed in various areas so that the gorillas will duplicate
foraging behavior. We also throw out scratch grain. It is interesting to watch a 450 lb.
adult male sitting and studiously picking up seeds, grain by grain, by moistening his
enormous finger and pressing it down to each seed in turn. This activity alone can
absorb him for ages.

Thanks to the efforts of our gardening staff, fresh browse is provided when needed, and
the gorillas enjoy this greatly. First of all, the leaves are eaten with great relish, and
then the bark is peeled off meticulously, ensuring that no little piece is missed.

Toys can be a bit of a problem because they have to be durable. The keepers at the
Columbus Zoo had told me about the Boomer Ball, a very hard plastic ball designed
originally to keep domestic pigs occupied. The Boomer Ball has been enjoyed by the
Columbus gorillas for some time. Unfortunately, it lasted only two days with ours.
Barney tried to eat it.

We have had good success with other toys, however. Heavy rubber feed tubs have proven to
be very popular. Amanda likes to relax in hers while eating, and has also been observed
carrying one around on her back, much like a turtle's shell. The adult male, Charles, is
also very fond of rubber tubs too, but being rather large, he doesn't quite fit! However, that
hasn't stopped him from trying.

A burlap feed bag also makes an economical toy. One can simply sit on it; or try to wear
it; or play a game with it; or carry it; or rip it to shreds!

Another item that has proven popular is a heavy plastic drum that can be obtained from
car washes. They are filled with the soap used for washing cars and can be safely
cleaned out with water. They are quite durable, but you know the old joke about where
does a 450 lb. gorilla sit? When cut in half, the drum provides another place in which to
sit, and when pushed across the exhibit in an assertive display, it makes a wonderfully
impressive noise.

Our gorillas are tool users, and to give them an opportunity to utilize their skills, my
colleague Hans Vleming and I have come up with two activity boards. The first is
composed of two 2.54cm (1") thick boards clamped together, in which round holes 2.54cm
(1") in diameter have been drilled. On one side of these holes, metal plates have been

402

How We Keep Our Gorillas Occupied. Continued

screwed to provide a slot in which to drop raisins. The whole board is then attached to the
keeper side of the exhibit wire mesh. It is then necessary for the gorilla to fashion a tool
from the browse provided to dig out the raisins for consumption. Samantha likes to use a
rubber tire to help her out when she gets tried of standing.

The next activity board is made of two exterior pieces of plexiglass which are mounted on
the keeper side of the wire mesh of the exhibit. The inner shell of plexiglass has been cut
to provide a slot in which the keeper can deposit peanuts. The gorilla again must fashion
a tool from browse in order to move the peanuts along a slot to the end where they drop
down to the next level, and then are moved along to the opposite end to drop down into a
hole where they are removed for consumption. The adults utilize worked sticks to move
the nuts along the track, but four-year-old Catherine finds that her tongue works just as
well! In fact, we're thinking of developing timed speed trials for this event!

One of the most important reasons for attending the annual AAZK conference is to share
ideas with our colleagues. Whereas many of the ideas presented herein may not be new to
you, perhaps there are one or two suggestions for you to try, in order to overcome the
serious problem of boredom in your charges at home. The key seems to be to vary the
activities provided so that the animals have something to look forward to. This is by no
means intended to be a complete list of ideas. I'm always on the lookout for something
new, and I would welcome any suggestions that you may have to supplement those
presented in this paper.

References cited:

Hornaday, W.T. 1915. "Gorillas, Past and Present". Bulletin. New York Zoological
Society, 18(1 ):1 181 -85.

®

Keeper's Alert

In the August 1987 issue of AKF . the Public Education Committee solicited answers
from the membership to questions frequently asked by zoo visitors. The committee
is seeking the "best" answers to such questions to incorporate in a booklet. The
following is the third question restated and the "best" answer to that question.
Another frequently asked question will appear at the end of this article - please take a
few minutes and put your thoughts together and send them to: Ellen Bradfield at the
address given.

Question # 3 was: "How do zoos get their animals?"

The answer to Question #3 is:

Most zoos today acquire their animals through animal dealers and breeders or
directly from other zoos. Animals are rarely taken from the wild. Animals can
sometimes be sent to another zoo to prevent inbreeding or fighting, or to provide a
mate for an animal elsewhere.

Question #4 will be: "Can we feed the animals?"

Please send any comments or suggestions to: Ellen Bradfield, Zoo Atlanta AAZK, 800
Cherokee Ave. SE, Atlanta, GA 30315.

403

Notes on the Management of
Fisher at the Burnet Park Zoo

By

Tom LaBarge
Wild North Keeper
Burnet Park Zoo, Syracuse, NY

INTRODUCTION

The Fisher (Maries pennanti) . also called pekan or Pennant's marten, is a large
mustelid, and the largest of the two species of marten found in North America. Its habitat
consists mostly of thickly forested areas of subarctic Canada, New England, the
Adriondacks, the Great Lakes region, isolated parts of Appalachia, and high altitude
areas of the northern Rocky Mountain states (Grzimek 1975, Strickland et al. 1982).

Fisher are the largest of the Maries group of mustelids, and like many other weasels,
are sexually dimorphic. Adult male fishers vary in weight from 3.5 to 5.5 kg., with a
total length of 90 to 120 cm. Adult females may be considerably smaller, averaging
2.0 to 2.5 kg., with a total length of 75 to 90 cm. (Powell 1982). Color is dark
brown, varying from sable to almost black depending on individual and season. Most
fisher have a cream colored patch or patches on the chest (Powell 1982).

Extremely solitary in nature, fisher rarely associate outside the late March to May
breeding season. As a rule they are territorial, and the home range of the male may
overlap the home ranges of several females (Coulter 1966).

Fisher are active at night, but daytime activity is frequent also (Strickland et al.
1982). At the Burnet Park Zoo activity is common in the morning and at dusk, but the
animals tend to sleep throughout the midday.

In the wild, fisher range and activity pattern may be dependent on the density of prey
species. Lagomorphs, rodents and birds are among their food items. The fisher may
also play a major role in the control of another prey species, the porcupine (Powell
1982).

Overall, wild populations of fisher still hold their own in much of their range, while
becoming scarce in areas of overtrapping and deforestation (Powell 1982).

CAPTIVE HISTORY

The genus Maries is noted for its difficult nature and limited success in captivity
(Crandall 1964). The exception to this rule might be the long term propagation of
sable (M. zibellina ) on Soviet fur farms. Sporadic captive propagation in zoos has been
achieved with the Eurasian species: M. martes . the pine marten; M. flavigula . the yellow-
throated marten; and M. foina. the beech or stone marten (Olney 1981, 1983). The story of
fisher in captivity is a disheartening one, and yet an interesting story in itself.

During the 1930's and 40's, fisher were bred and raised on a handful of Canadian fur
farms (Hodgson 1937, Hall 1942). These early efforts were apparently abandoned due to
the uneconomical breeding nature of the species. Most of the scattered attempts since that
time seem to have failed, though from time to time there have been fisher births in
captivity resulting from wild caught impregnated females. Even more recent attempts by
the Province of Ontario and the University of Vermont ended in failure (Hall 1987).

The zoos which currently exhibit fisher have reported no births in the last decade which

404

Notes on the Management of Fisher at Burnet Park Zoo. Continued

resulted from captive breeding. ISIS (1986) species distribution reports and personal
contacts indicate that as of June 1987, Nine (4.5) fisher were held in five United States
zoological parks.

HU S BAJ NP B Y

1. Exhibition and Housing

Fisher are good exhibition subjects, but like martens require space for their activities
(Crandall 1964). Because fisher are easily stressed, large exhibits which afford the
animals exercise, flight distance and places to hide are suggested.

The fisher exhibit at the Burnet Park Zoo is a large black wire mesh enclosure (10cm
x 5 cm rectangular mesh) located as part of a "row" of similar style exhibits in the
Northeast Woodlands section of the zoo's "Wild North" (See Figure 1). The main
exhibit is approximately 12m x 5m x 5m. To the rear of the exhibit, partially
concealed from public view, is a second, isolation unit approximately 5.5m x 1.5m x
1.5m. Between the two areas is a holding unit, approximately lm x 1.5m x 1.5m.

405

Notes on the Management of Fisher at Burnet Park Zoo. Continued

Both of the larger enclosures are provided with nest boxes and exhibit furniture.
Furniture in the main exhibit is quite extensive, consisting of live trees, vines, logs,
climbing poles and stumps. The wire mesh of the exhibit is buried at the bottom to a
depth of approximately .5m to 1.0m to prevent escape via digging at the perimeter.
The floor of the exhibit is the natural forest earth, covered periodically with shredded
bark as a substrate.

Two types of nest boxes are now in use: a smaller, 120cm x 50cm x 30cm box (see
Figure 2) in the main exhibit for the male; and a larger, 122cm x 60cm x 60cm nest
box (see Figure 3a, 3b) located in the female’s isolation unit. The larger nest box, or
female's denning box, contains two compartments. The rear compartment is designed to
allow the insertion of a small interior nest box approximately 30cm x 30cm x50cm
(see Figure 3c) which is useful for added insulation during the winter, and for easy
capture and transport of the animal.

Nest boxes are constructed of 1/2 or 3/4 inch plywood. The tops of the nest boxes are
hinged to allow keeper access and easy cleaning. Sliding entrance doors on the boxes,
also constructed of plywood, enable the animal to be locked out of the box during exhibition
hours. Fisher tend to sleep throughout much of the daylight hours, and might never be
viewed by the public if allowed access to the nest box. By example, when our male was
first introduced to the exhibit, his efforts to get into the nest box resulted in his chewing a
large hole in the door. Plating the door with galvanized sheet metal saved it. Later on,
after the male became acclimatized to his new surroundings (and found a few hiding
places on exhibit), his abuse of the nest box ended.

Figure 2. c ? nest box

exterio

back

compartment

i nt er i or box

Figure 3a. nest box.
< cutaway vi ew >

406

Notes on the Management of Fisher at Burnet Park Zoo. Continued

I , jl

C - j|

Figure 3b. ? rvest box
(top view)

i i

Figure 3c. Interior box detail

2. Diet

Under normal conditions the fisher at the Burnet Park Zoo display an excellent appetite
for a diet mixture that some refer to as "fisher patties". Each fisher receives daily a
main fare of 225 to 285 grams (6 to 10 oz) of Nebraska Brand® Feline diet mixed
thoroughly with 57 grams (2 oz) of our fisher chow mix. The fisher chow mix is a 1:1
ground dry mixture of Rise® Floating Fish diet and Big Red® cat chow, which, when
thoroughly blended approximates the protein, fat and carbohydrate percentages of
commercial dry mink chows (Moore 1987).

The animals are fed once daily, and in hot weather are fed as late in the day as possible
to prevent spoilage and flies. The fisher are always fed separately, even during
breeding season, due to the aggressiveness and gluttonous appetite shown by these
animals (Hodgson 1937).

Twice a week each animal receives a treat item along with their regular meal. Usually
this consists of no more than 28 grams (1 oz) slice of herring or 1/2 hard boiled egg.
In September, the Burnet Park Zoo will change the present diet to include fresh killed
rabbits. Initially this will be done by allowing each fisher 1 to 1 1/2 small rabbits
per week, and adjusting the amount of their regular fare accordingly.

Vitamin supplementation consists of 1 tsp Chaparrel® brand zoological vitamins daily
per animal. Also, the Vitamin E content of the diets has been increased by the daily
addition of 200 I.U. Vitamin E (oC- tocopherol acetate) per animal.

The importance of Vitamin E in mustelid diets continues to be debated. The practice of
supplementing the fisher diets at the Burnet Park Zoo is based on evidence that the
Vitamin E levels might have been deficient.

The reasonable estimation of the Vitamin E requirement was done by extrapolation of
the recommended dosage for mink (NRC 1968). By example: since the recommended
dosage for mink is 25 I.U. per 1 kg diet for an average 1.0 kg mink; then for fisher we
might then estimate a dosage of 88 to 138 I.U. per 1 kg diet for a 3.5 to 5.5 kg fisher.
I.U. represents international units. 1 I.U. Vitamin E is equivalent to 1 mg cxl —
tocopherol acetate (NRC 1968).

3. Handling

Hodgson (1937) once described a practice on Canadian fur farms where the attendant
could hand hold fisher for daily health and estrus cycling inspection. Obviously these
very tractable animals were somewhat tame, and in some cases hand-reared. The wild-
caught fisher at the Burnet Park Zoo and other zoos are much too defensive for such a

407

Notes on the Management of Fisher at Burnet Park Zoo. Continued

maneuver. Fisher can be caught using flexible small mammal nets, but only when
absolutely necessary because of the stress this places on them.

For transporting fisher over short distances (such as between adjoining enclosures), a
less stressful method is to chase the fisher into a small nest box. Closing the fisher
containment for a long term trip (Moore 1983). For long trips an air kennel with straw or
grass hay is recommended. Moore (1983) suggests the use of chemical restraint in
transporting.

In the case of health examinations or prolonged treatments, the consensus is firmly in
favor of chemical restraint. Kaufman (1978) recommends the appropriate dosage of
Ketamine® hydrochloride as the restraint drug of choice.

Within daily care situations, fisher can be quite manageable. The daily routine of
moving animals out of their nest boxes, exhibit cleaning, and feeding is done without
much trouble. In most instances the fisher are found to be wary of contact, or at least only
mildly curious of the keeper's activity.

The exception to the normally quiet behavior of our fisher occurs when netting is
required, or when doing work near fisher in a small area. Under such stressful
conditions both sexes of fisher may be dangerous. Hodgson (1937) relates an instance
where a fisher attacked an attendant on a Canadian fur farm, apparently in a small area
and without provocation. If netting is necessary, keepers should keep in mind the high
strung nature and the ferocity of which these animals are capable.

REPRODUCTION

1 . Reproductive Biology

Fisher, like many related species, possess delayed implantation as a distinctive feature
of their reproductive biology. Delayed implantation also seems to have been stretched to
its maximum in these animals: the 10 to 11 month delay before implantation of the
blastocysts in the uterus being one of the longest such periods reported for mustelids
(Powell 1982).

Females are thought to be sexually mature at 10 to 12 month of age. Males probably reach
that state between 12 to 24 month but this has not been thoroughly investigatesd (Strickland
etal. 1982).

Hodgson (1937) and Hall (1942) place the fisher breeding season between March and
May on Canadian fur farms. At the Burnet Park Zoo precopulatory behavior was noted
between 27 March and 28 May (1987). Similar observations at other zoos confirm
breeding behavior within this general time frame. Hodgson (1937) believes the female to
be capable of at least two estrus cycles during the season; an observation yet to be
confirmed by recent researchers. Variance in breeding season may be an effect of
photoperiod, geographical and weather conditions (Powell 1982). Observations
attributed to G.R. Parsons (1978) and others, allude to the possibility of estrus
cycling also occurring in September (Strickland et al. 1982).

Hodgson (1937) describes success in breeding fisher using both polygamous and
monogamous situations, with a greater success to be had using the polygamous mating
scheme. While a few zoos do exhibit compatible pairs throughout the year, at the
Burnet Park Zoo the choice has been to keep the animals separated outside the breeding
season. This practice is an attempt to simulate the wild conditions described by Coulter
(1966) and others. The whole question of which mating scheme to use is still much
debated, but successful births in other captive mustelids, particularly otters, and recently
ermine (DonCarlos et al. 1986) seems to suggest that the animals are best kept as
"strangers" throughout much of the year. Whatever role the mating scheme plays in
Burnet Park Zoo the choice has been to keep the animals separated outside the breeding
season. This practice is an attempt to simulate the wild conditions described by Coulter

408

Notes on the Management of Fisher at Burnet Park Zoo. Continued

(1966) and others. The whole question of which mating scheme to use is still much
debated, but successful births in other captive mustelids, particularly otters, and
recently ermine (DonCarlos et al. 1986) seems to suggest that the animals are best
kept as "strangers" throughout much of the year. Whatever role the mating scheme
plays in captive mustelids is yet to be thoroughly researched (Moore 1987).

Most authors agree that the female is the initiator of breeding behavior. This was noted
at the Burnet Park Zoo by our own female's aggressive investigations of the male
during breeding season. Copulation in fisher, described by various authors, is similar
to other mustelids: shoulder or neck biting, male grasps female tightly with forelegs
about the mid-section, with an intromission of considerable duration (which has led
many modern observers to suspect induced ovulation). Duration of breeding has been
described by Hodgson (1937) as being from 1 to 7 hours.

Following successful copulation, the fertilized egg (s) will develop until the blastocyst
stage, at which point development is arrested until implantation in January or
February (Strickland et al. 1982).

Total gestation time reported by Hall (1942) from fisher on Canadian fur farms,
ranges from 338 to 358 days. From implantation to birth, the time may be 30 to 60
days (a more accurate figure yet to be determined) (Strickland et al. 1982). Coulter
(1966) reports whelping from February until mid April, with most births occurring
in March; resulting in the birth of 1 to 4 altricial young.

Coulter (1966) probably gives the most information concerning development of young
to date. Size of young at 3 days old was reported between 39.0 and 41.2 grams (Coulter
1966). Growth is rapid, the young gaining weight at a rate of 5 to 10 grams per day,
and weighing close to 800 grams in 96 days (Coulter 1966). Other notes by Coulter
include: eyes open at 53 days, walking in 63 days, teeth eruption in 62 days, and
nursing up to 114 days.

Of primary concern to the keepers also, is the suggested separation of young from the
mother at the age of 4 months, after which time she becomes increasingly aggressive
and even dangerous to the kits (Coulter 1966).

2. Patterns of mating behavior observed at the Burnet Park Zoo

Approaching the Spring of 1987, steps were taken to prepare for the introduction of our 12-
year-old male fisher to our 8-year-old female (age approximations for these wild-caught
animals).

The first concern was to ensure that both animals felt comfortable in their
surroundings; particularly the male, which was new to the Woodlands exhibit area.
The female had been a resident in the exhibit for a year or more. The male was first
brought out to the adjoining holding enclosure in the Fall of 1986.

The second concern, also quite important to our breeding effort, was the creation of a
territorial overlap within the exhibit prior to introduction. Such an overlap is meant
to simulate the wild condition where the territory of a male will overlap that of the
female fisher.

From 22 October 1986 to 24 March 1987, an attempt to create the territorial overlap
was performed by alternating the use of the large exhibit on a weekly basis. This gave
the fisher about five months to explore, scent mark and acclimate themselves to the
same exhibit, and each other.

Prior to our initial introduction period, a group of volunteers was assembled to watch
and record the behavior of our animals. Since this was our first experience with this
species, it was important that we observe and record all we could from this

409

Notes on the Management of Fisher at Burnet Park Zoo. Continued

|i

introduction. With this in mind, we tried (although we were not ever 100 percent
successful) to cover as many observational hours as possible.

On 20 March, while the female was in the holding enclosure, she was observed digging
at the earth floor near the wire divider between that and the exhibit area. Two days
later, the same behavior was noted, and the decision was made to make the introduction.

The first introduction of our fisher took place on the morning of 24 March. The first
few hours of introduction went smoothly. Encounters between the pair were aggressive
and seemed to be initiated by the female. No mounting was noted at that time.

During the first two weeks of introduction (24 March to 7 April) the animals were
always separated at the end of the day. After 7 April the pair was kept together
continuously, on exhibit, and no dangerous situations resulted.

From 27 March to 16 May, several instances of precopulatory behaviors were
observed and recorded. Most of these encounters following a similar pattern:

1) approaches , bites .

2) grabs or snaps at neck or shoulders.

3. mounts . bites at , pulls free of .

Duration approximately 20 to 45 seconds.

While these behaviors seem at first encouraging, observations at other zoos revealed a
similar pattern: a lot of precopulatory behavior without successful intromission
(Sandon 1987, Snyder 1987).

On the morning of 17 May, bite marks were noted on the female's neck. The actual
occurrence was not observed. And, because several authors agree with the report by
Hodgson (1937), who describes copulatory bites as being mostly on the shoulders, we can
only conclude that the chance of successful copulation in this instance is a slim one.

Following the above mentioned time period, the frequency of breeding behavior
declined. On 2 June the fisher were separated. Since that time there has been no signs
of interest between the animals (i.e. such as digging at the wire adjoining the
enclosures).

Plans for next season:

1) Earlier introductions:

Since we now know that our pair does well together, we might
begin introductions at the beginning of March to avoid the chance
of missing an early estrus cycle.

2. Estrus cycle examinations:

A couple of squeeze cage designs may be used on the female fisher
to determine whether daily examinations for estrus can be done.

410

Notes on the Management of Fisher at Burnet Park Zoo. Continued

HEALTH PROBLEMS

In general, the health of our fisher has been excellent. Powell (1982) suggests that
zoos have had trouble keeping fisher because of their susceptibility to diseases in
captivity. Fortunately, this had not been our experience. It may be, however, that the
health of our fisher may be related to the northern climate of Central New York, which
is within the animal’s native historic range.

Routine fecal exams and inspection of fisher has so far proven effective for the
prevention of some of the problems described by Coulter (1966), who observed
sarcoptic mange, nematodes, cestodes, and various ectoparasites in wild fisher.

Two concerns at the Burnet Park Zoo that might bear further discussion are eye
problems and hair loss in fisher.

E ye prob l e m s

Excessive mucous in the right eye of our female fisher was noted in 1986, and again in
1987. Veterinary inspection in 1986 revealed no apparent cause for this condition. The
eye, although almost half closed at times, was never excessively mucousy, and the
problem cleared up in a matter of weeks in both instances. In addition, Moore (1983)
noted a similar condition in a geriatric female American marten; and VanPoznack
(1987) described a similar condition in a female fisher once held at the Van Saun Park
Zoo in Paramus, NJ.

Hair loss in fisher

Powell (1982) notes an annual molt in fisher beginning in late summer. In our
experience, this molt began in late May for our male, and June for our female. The
timing of the molt may be related to climatic conditions.

Female fisher; the thick, luxurious fur of the species has caused its demise in many areas
of the United States. (Photo credit: Elizabeth Costello)

411

Notes on the Management of Fisher at Burnet Park Zoo, Continued

The loss of hair during molt can be quite extensive, but in the majority of cases
investigated it seems to occur on the dorsal posterior from the animal's shoulders and
front legs (Ellis 1987, Sandon 1987, and Snyder 1987).

This year (1987), our male lost almost all his hair on the lower back and tail. Hair
loss in the female occurred mostly on the sides of the body and the tail. Gradually, the
female lost more hair on the dorsal area of her back. The male began new hair growth
in July, and in a few short weeks had a beautiful, almost black coat of hair. The
female's hair began its return by August and had almost completely regrown by 1
September.

A similar history of the fisher's annual molt was reported by other zoos; and all these
commented on the "almost naked" appearance of their fisher at that time (Ellis 1987,
Sandon 1987 and Snyder 1987).

Male fisher: photographer during its favorite activity on a warm, sunny afternoon.
(Photo credit: Elizabeth Costello)

RESEARCH

Research into fisher breeding behavior and management practices is needed to increase
the chance of successfully breeding this species in captivity. Some of the areas that might
need more attention include:

1. Demographic: The current population of captive fisher reveals that
the majority of animals may be too old for successful breeding (over
ten years of age). Also, none of the zoos investigated possessed more
than one pair of the animals. Greater numbers of fisher, perhaps in
off- exhibit facilities, might be needed to breed the species.

412

Notes on the Management of Fisher at Burnet Park Zoo. Continued

2. Diet: The effects of commercial diets and the effects of more natural
diets needs to be investigated and compared. Also, the effect of either
increased Vitamin E or Vitamin E deficiency on breeding success in all
species needs to be more firmly established.

3. Re productive Biology: Several factors concerning the breeding
behavior and biology of the species needs investigation and con-
firmation. Included among these are:

- Estrus cycling and mating season biology.

- Age effect on breeding activity.

- Photoperiod effect on breeding activity.

- Monogamous vs. polygamous mating schemes.

- Induced ovulation.

PRODUCTS MENTIONED IN THE TEXT

Nebraska Brand® Feline Diet, distributed by Animal Spectrum, Inc., P.O. Box 6307,
Lincoln, NE 68506-0307

Big Red® Cat Chow, product of Agway, Inc., Butternut Drive, DeWitt, NY

Rise® Floating Fish Diet, product of Agway, Inc., Butternut Drive, DeWitt, NY

Chaparrell® Zoological Vitamins, product of Chaparrel Sales Corp., 6810 Edith, N.E.,
Albuquerque, NM

L ITERATURE CITED

Coulter, M.W. 1966. Ecology and Management of Fishers in Maine. Ph.D. Thesis.

N.Y.S. College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY.

Crandall, L.S. 1964. The Management of Wild Animals in Captivity. Published by
University of Chicago Press, Chicago, IL. 769 pp.

DonCarlos, M.W. J.S. Peterson, and R.L. Tilson, 1986. Captive Biology of an Asocial

Mustelid: Mustela erminea. Zoo Biology 5:363-370. Published by Alan R.
Liss, Inc.

Grzimek, B. 1975. Grzimek's Animal Life Encyclopedia: Vol 12 Mammals III.

Published by Van Nostrand Reinhold Co., New York, NY.

Hall, E.R. 1942. G es ta tion p eri od in Figher with re cammfi j da tions for the anima l s
protection in California. California Fish & Game: Vol 28, 143-147.

Hodgson, R.G. 1937. Fisher Farming. Published by the Fur Trade Journal of
Canada, Toronto, CAN.

ISIS. 1986. International Species Inventory System. Species Distribution Report.

ISIS. Apple Valley, MN. (microfiche)

Kaufmann, P.H. 1978. Procyonide and mustelidae, pp. 637-639; IN. Fowler, M.E.
(ed), Zoo and Wild Animal Medicine. Published by W.B. Saunders Co.,
Philadelphia, PA 951 pp.

Moore, D.E. 1983. Species Management Plan: Fisher . Burnet Park Zoo, Syracuse, NY
12 pp. Unpublished Reference Material.

NRC. 1968. National R es e arch C o uncil, Nutrient requirements of Mink and Foxes.

No. 1676. Published by the National Academy of Science, Washington, DC.
Olney, P.J.S. (ed) 1981, 1983. International Zoo Yearbooks. Vol 22 and Vol 23.

Published by the Zoological Society of London, London, England, GBR.

413

Notes on the Management of Fisher at Burnet Park Zoo. Continued

Parsons, G.R. 1978. Referenced IN Strickland et al. 1982. Wild Mammals of North

America; BiQlQg y, M a n agement a n dJSg.Qn Q mi q Published by the John Hopkins
University Press, Baltimore, MD. 1147 pp.

Powell, R.A. 1982. Th e_Fj§h en.,Lif e .„Hi s t o r y , E c olog y a n d Behavior, Published by
University of Minnesota Press, Minneapolis, MN. 217 pp.

Strickland, M.A., C.W. Douglas, M. Novak and M.P. Hunzinger. 1982.

Fisher , pp. 586-598, IN Chapman, J.A. and G.A. Feldhammer (eds),

Wild Mammals of North America: Biology. Management and Economics.

Published by the John Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, MD. 1147 pp.

QTHEIj SOURC E S CITED

Ellis, D. 1987. Pers. Comm., Curator of Mammals, Northwest Trek, Tacoma, WA.

Hall, M. 1987. Pers. Comm, to M. Read. Senior Wildlife Biologist, Region #7,

Wildlife Bureau, Cortland, NY.

Moore, D.E. 1987. Pers. Comm., Curator of Mammals, Burnet Park Zoo, Syracuse,
NY.

Sandon, D. 1987. Pers. Comm. Zoological Assistant, Minnesota Zoological
Gardens, Apple Valley, MN.

Snyder, D. 1987. Pers. Comm. Animal Manager, Zooamerica, Hershey, PA.

VanPoznak, C. 1987. Pers. Comm. Tenafly, NJ. Formerly associated with Van Saun
Park Zoo, Paramus, NJ.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I would like to thank the many persons who have given my guidance, support and
information during my continuing study of the fisher. A special thanks to Don Moore,
whose own fisher research provided much of the impetus for my own investigations; and
to Tom Wood, for his practical guidance with our animals and for his tolerance of my
preoccupation with Maries. Also, a thanks to Michael DonCarlos and Dave Ellis for their
ideas on this subject; and to "fisher enthusiasts" Donna Sandon, Dale Snyder and Cathy
VanPoznack.

414

Husbandry of the Giant Anteater
at Reid Park Zoo

By

Ed Hansen, Keeper
Reid Park Zoo
Tucson, AZ

The giant anteater (Myrmeconhapre tridactvla) is in the family Edentata which, literally
translated, means "without teeth". The order Edentata, which also includes sloths and
armadillos, is distinguished from all other orders by xenarthrous, the extra articulations
to the lumbar vertebrae that enhance the ability to dig (Grzimek, 1975). Giant anteaters
can be adept climbers, however they are principally terrestrial.

The diurnal giant anteater leads a primarily solitary life. They have relatively poor
eyesight and hearing, and therefore are more dependent on their inquiring nose and
sense of smell. Powerful claws are evident on the forelegs and are used for excavating
food (beetle grubs and termites) and for defense. Locomotion can best be described as a
"knuckle walk" with the large digging claws folded under into the sole of the foreleg.
The head is elongated and cylindrical. A small mouth houses a saliva coated tongue,
measuring up to 70cm (Wallach and Boever, 1983) that attaches directly to the sternum.
Head and body size varies from 1000 to 1200mm with a tail 650 to 900mm (Walkers, 1984).
Specimen weights at Reid Park Zoo have varied greatly from 30kg (breeder male) to 65kg
(female). Average weight is approximately 40kg. Hair is coarse and grey in color, with
a bold black stripe outlined in white starting at the base of the neck and extending
backwards across the shoulders and ending at mid-spine. Underlying skin pigment is a
red/orange color that sheds readily when wet.

The range of the giant anteater is from southern Brazil to northern Argentina and
encompasses a variety of habitats from humid forests and swamps to arid savannahs.
CITES currently lists the giant anteater as threatened, however no firm estimates of the
wild population exist. The 1985 giant anteater studbook lists the captive population at 82
animals (35.47.0), (Bartmen, 1986), but due to recent wild imports, the status of captive
animals has likely increased. A longevity of 25 years has been published (Walkers,
1984), however at this writing the Phoenix Zoo maintains a captive specimen of 26 plus
years, and Reid Park Zoo displays a wild caught female housed in the collection since
1968. Now you know why everyone moves to Arizona for their health, even if it is 110° F
in the summer.

Reid Park Zoo currently houses 3.3 giant anteater in three separate, mixed species
exhibits. One exhibit houses 1.2 giant anteaters with a pair of Bahama pintail. An
adjoining exhibit houses a female and young (or the primary breeding pair) with
Andean geese. A separate exhibit is kept for a solitary male or young. The exhibit sizes
average 160 square meters and each has a block nighthouse (8x4x3 meters) with a
concrete floor. Thermoregulation in all edentates is relatively poor and therefore the
thick pelage of the tropical giant anteater should not be construed as evolution gone awry.
The body of the giant anteater looses heat very rapidly, and so even in the mild winters in
Tucson, the night houses are bedded heavily with Bermuda grasses. In the past hog mat
slab heaters were used to provide heat, however, they caused an occasional blister on the
animals and their use has since been discontinued.

Exhibit substrate is sod which the anteaters customize to resemble the surface of the moon.
Each display has a wading pool of varying size and depth, for anteaters are accomplished
swimmers and faithful bathers. Water also stimulates urination and defecation. The

415

Husbandry of the Giant Anteater at Reid Park Zoo. Continued

anteater diet at RPZ consists of soaked dog chow, ground carnivore diet, blended
bananas, hard boiled eggs, and cottage cheese. Portagen® powder is added as a protein
supplement, along with Vionate® powder. Blood chemistry results from our animals
indicate giant anteaters are deficient in vitamin K, and therefore the supplement K-sol®
is mixed with the Vionate®. Animals are fed twice a day in an effort to reduce spoilage
which does not take long in our climate. Reid Park Zoo has had several instances of
sinew and ligaments from unground meat becoming wrapped around the tongue and
strangling the tissue.

Veterinary care is imaginative. Oral treatment can be frustrating as the olfactory
senses are able to sniff out the most carefully concealed drugs. Bland and slightly
flavored pediatric drugs work on occasion. Manual restraint is extremely difficult at
best. Reid Park Zoo uses two lassos to crisscross the forelegs in front of the chest, while
the rear legs are controlled with a stout pushbroom. Injections can be given after
restraint, while in morning slumber, or, if quick enough, when approached from the
rear. Chemical restraint at Reid Park Zoo is limited to Ketamine® at lOmg per kg.
Anteaters at Reid Park Zoo have shown an intolerance to Halothane/Fluothane®
anesthesia, having entered respiratory arrest several times.

Introduction methods vary at RPZ, but females are always reintroduced to males after
young have been weaned and removed. Introduction after nine months of separation is
usually done in isolation at our animal hospital, due to the volatile nature of the anteater.
Recent introduction of a wild caught female to an established pair of anteaters was
accomplished with minimal interaction. Due to poor eyesight, visual contact preceding
physical contact has little merit, however, olfactory contacts can be very important.
Initial reaction of newly introduced anteaters consists of loud mutual vocalizations that
sound somewhat like a cross between a diesel engine and a grizzly bear. This is
usually followed by lateral charges and circling with one foreleg raised. If disputes need
to be further settled, both animals will rear up on their hind leg^and throw back -handed
blows, with claws like sickles. This is also their reaction to ja/keeper who may choose to
intervene at this point. Injuries have been limited to minor abrasions and lacerations to
both anteater and keepers. A unique feature to the introduction of anteaters is the
appearance in both sexes of an ocular discharge that has the look and consistency of
cottage cheese. Cultures run on this discharge have been unremarkable.

Following a successful introduction, nature should take its course and a successful
breeding will follow - except for one very, major stumbling block. Giant anteaters are
not obviously sexually dimorphic. The males have interabdominal testicles, and at first
glance the genitalia of the sexes are markedly similar. Guaranteeing the sexes can only
be accomplished by close inspection of the genitalia and confirming the presence of the
desired sex organs necessary to make up a pair. All babies born at RPZ are manipulated
in this manner while sleeping or riding on their mother's back, when sexual
characteristics are easy to determine (Flint, pers. comm.). Little is known about the
frequency or duration of estrus cycles though RPZ awaits findings of a urinalysis
plotting study from Dr. Don Gillespie of Cincinnati Zoo.

Copulation is prefaced by the same vocalizations and maneuvering that takes place
during introduction. The male then places a foreleg on the spine of the female and
pushes her to the ground. Copulation takes place with the female in lateral recumbancy.
(At RPZ it is always right side recumbancy.) The male manipulates the tail to one side
then straddles the female with one foreleg on her ventral side and the other on the dorsal
side. Copulation occurs frequently over a period of 24-36 hours, peaking at a rate of one
breeding per 15 minutes. Semen collected after copulation and intromission was
measured at 50cc, not including the amount retained by the female.

Reid Park Zoo is proud to have experienced 11 giant anteater births since 1977. Four
adults (2.2) were responsible for these 11 births, four of which were full second
generation. Females are isolated before birth, and after a gestation of approximately 185
days, they give birth to a single young. Weighing in at 100 to llOOgm. at birth, the babies

416

Husbandry of the Giant Ant eater at Reid Park Zoo. Continued

are totally dependent on mom. Mammary glands are found high on the chest, nearly in
the armpit, and nursing occurs while the female is in lateral recumbancy. One of the
most readily identifiable characteristics of the anteater is the way the female carries the
young along her spine, perfectly camouflaged. When newborn, the young cling to the
tail, then slowly progress up the tail to the back as their strength grows. The female
carries the young at all times for the first three months.

As the youngster grows bolder, less and less time is spent on the mother until total
weaning takes place at almost eight months. In times of stress, even a one-year-old
youngster will still try to climb aboard the mother’s back even though their weight may be
nearly equal. In the wild, the young will stay with the mother until driven off by a
pursuing male, or the eventual birth of another young (Walkers, 1984).

Reid Park Zoo has hand-raised three giant anteaters due to parental rejection. Basic
hand-rearing formula consists of KMR® and water, 50/50, (Flint, pers. comm.) fed
every 3-4 hours. A neonate feeding tube was used at first then as the suckling reflex got
stronger, a small nipple was used. The amount of formula consumed at birth averaged
15 to 20ml per feeding per day. Intake averaged approximately 200ml per feeding at the
start of weaning. Young were kept in a pediatric incubator set at 82-85° F, until they
outgrew them at around 120 days. Hand-raising giant anteaters can be a painful
experience due to their natural tendency to climb the nearest available appendage,
usually your leg. (Flint, pers. comm.) Solid food (adult diet) thoroughly blended is
offered at four months, and is gradually accepted. Weights at weaning range from 10 to
15kg. Successful introduction of a hand-raised female to a parent-raised male from the
Denver Zoo has resulted in our four, full second-generation births, all of which were
mother-raised.

Acknowledgments

Various staff members of Reid Park Zoo contributed to the text compiled and my sincere
thanks go to all involved. Steve McCusker, Zoo Administrator, and Kerry Hoffman,
Education Curator, need to be singled out for their editing abilities and insights. Thanks
to Mike Flint, General Curator, for his insights and hand-rearing data on the anteaters,
and to Ann Gillette of the Education Dept, for the use of some of her slides for this
conference presentation.

References

Bartman, Dr. Wolf. Giant Anteater Studbook keeper. Giant Anteater Studbook 1985.

Flint, Michael (general Curator, Reid Park Zoo, Tucson, AZ) personal communication.
1972-

Grzimek, Dr. h.c. Bernhard. Grzimek’s Animal Life Encyclopedia . Vol. 11., 1975.

Van Nostrand Reinhold Co.

Walkers, Ernest P. Mammals of the World . 4th edition. 1984.

John Hopkins Press, Baltimore, MD

Wallach, Joel D. and Boever, William J., Diseases of Exotic Animals . 1983.

W.B. Saunders Co.

Products Mentioned in die Text

KMR® manufactured by Borden, Inc., Hampshire, IL 60140

Vet-a-Mix, Inc., Shenandoah, IA 51601

K-SOL®

Vetalar®

(Ketamine Hydrochloride injection usp) Parke-Davis Division of
Warner-Lambert Co., Morris Plains, NJ 07950

417

Husbandry of the Giant Ant eater at Reid Park Zoo ^ Continued

Halothane® Halocarbon Laboratories, Inc., 82 Burlews Court, Hackensack, NJ 07601
u.s.p.

Vi on ate® Distributed by ARC Laboratories, P.O. Box 18884, Irvine, CA 92713

Portagen® Mead Johnson nutritional division
powder Mead Johnson & Company, Evansville, IL 47721

Nixon Griffis Fund for Zoological Research

Awards Eight Grants

The Nixon Griffis Fund for Zoological Research (NGFZR), established in 1984 by New
York Zoological Society Trustee Nixon Griffis, awarded eight research grants in late
October 1987. The recipients were:

John D. Buck, PhD and L. Louis Shepard, U. of Connecticut

"A Nutritional and Microbiological Study of Captive Belukha
Whales ( Delphinapterus leucas) ''

Siwo R. de Kloet, PhD, Florida State University

"Determination of the Sex of Birds with Molecular Probes"

Robert C. Dowler, PhD and Eloise Aita, Fordham University

"An Assessment of Genetic Variability in North American Captive Gorillas"
Betsy L. Dresser, PhD, Cincinnati Zoo

"Gaur Embryo Cryopreservation and Interspecific Transfer"

James C. Gillingham, PhD, Central Michigan University

"An Ethological Analysis of the Mating System of Tuatura, Sphenodon nunctatus "
R. Eric Miller, DVM, St. Louis Zoo

"Hemoglobin Evaluation in the Black Rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis )"

John A. Phillips, PhD and Nancy Czekala, San Diego Zoo

"Inducing Ovulation in Monitor Lizards via GnRH Therapy"

Kent A. Vliet, PhD and Louis J. Guillette, PhD, U. of Florida

"The Effect of Stocking Density in Plasma Steroid Hormone and Gonadotropin
Levels in Captive-Reared Alligators"

Nixon Griffis Fund for Zoological Research grants are available to members of the zoo
and aquarium community. Fund recipients may be keepers, curators, veterinarians, or
research and consulting biologists. Grants, not to exceed $3000, are awarded semi-
annually. Closing periods are January 1st and July 1st. For information about the Fund
and grant application procedures, contact John Behler, Coordinator, Nixon Griffis Fund
for Zoological Research, do New York Zoological Society, Bronx zoo, Bronx, NY 10460.

ft

418

Growth and Development of a Tamandua

(Tgjnandua tetmcLactyla) at Lincoln Park Zoo

%

Patricia E. Sammarco, Animal Keeper 2
Lincoln Park Zoological Gardens , Chicago , IL

After a long-term behavioral study, hundreds of urine samples, and carefully monitored
introductions of females to the male, a baby Tamandua ( Tamandua tetradactyla ) has
been born at Lincoln Park Zoo. Baby Alejo is the sixth known recorded captive birth of
this species in the free world, the second at Lincoln Park Zoo. This is only the second
Tamandua to be mother-reared in captivity, the other, at Krefeld Zoo in Krefeld,
Germany, survived to be ten months old. Our zoo's other baby was successfully hand
-reared and remains in the collection and is now nearly six years old.

Alejo's father, Coletto, was donated to our zoo in 1982, having been wild-born and
partially hand-reared. Coincidentally, Alejo's mother was named for Nina Geiger who
raise Coletto. Both parents were approximately five years old at the time of the infant's
birth.

The animals are housed separately, and have been part of a reproduction study that
includes introductions for breeding. Although urine samples have been collected from
this female, they have been too random to determine cyclicity, and her behaviors have not
been definitive of her reproductive state. Thirteen breeding days have been arranged and
observed during the three year study, eleven of these occurred June through October 1986,
with a period of nine days in August seeing six breedings, and probably the onset of
pregnancy. (See Table 1). Urinalysis hints at, but had not defined, gestation. Counting
from a very intense breeding session on 24 August to the birth on 18 November, gestation
may be 86 days, considerably less than previously published. However, the range of
possible terms calculated from the other breeding dates could be 45 to 215 days.

The only verification to the guess that Nina was pregnant was her steady weight
gain. (See Figure 1).

The baby was born fully developed and surprisingly precocial. His eyes were open and
within 24 hours he had been seen nursing repeatedly and was actively self-grooming.
Mother left the baby to feed herself, and the baby was heard to roar upon her return. By day
three, the baby would often ride on mom's back rather than be left behind, and by 4
December (day 16) Alejo was seen exploring the cage on his own, manipulating straw
with his front claws, apparently in play. On 13 December (day 25), the baby was left alone
while mom ate; he started making a loud distress call, mother returned quickly and
Alejo mounted her back and became immediately calm. On 14 December (day 26), Alejo
and Nina were seen wrestling in play, and on later days a game of pounce on mom
showed to be typical activity.

The baby was first noted climbing on 21 December (day 33), and was seen eating from the
food bowl on 3 January (day 46). Nursing was last noticed on 10 January (day 53), but
because mother and son are often curled together in what could be a nursing position, it is
difficult to determine if weaning is complete.

Food is now presented in separate bowls, although Nina and Alejo share a bowl as often as
they eat separately. The baby's growth has been astonishing, with an average weight
increase of 22.5 grams per day; this only slightly less that the 25 grams per day growth
rate of the Krefeld baby.

419

Growth & Development of a Tamandua at Lincoln Park Zoo.

Continued

Figure 1: Weight changes in adult female Tamandua tetradactyla.
Baby born 18 November 1986.

Figure 2: Weight gain in Tamandua tetradactyla bom 18 November
1986.

420

Growth & Development of a Tamandua at Lincoln Park Zoo,

Continued

The baby is robust and active. He has exceeded his mother's size and is quickly
approaching his father's weight of 6.7 kg. During weigh-in procedures, Alejo is often
placed in proximity to unrelated female Tamanduas, and now shows some interest,
rather than previous fear.

This important birth and successful rearing represents a part of the commitment that our
zoo, and especially Dr. Dennis Merrit have made to Edentate husbandry.

1986 Breeding Dates

15 March
2 May
22 May
15 June
7 July
15 August

18 August

19 August

21 August

22 August

24 August

25 September
4 October

Ppssifrle Citation Tqrm

215 days
198
178
156
133
95
92
91
89
88
86
53
45

Table 1: 1986 breedings of Tamandua tetradactyla

Female Nina (LC6404) / Male Coletto (LC6856)

References

Encke, Richard. Keeping and Breeding Tamanduas at Krefeld Zoo.

Sammarco, P.E., A Tamandua Reproduction Project: Further Progress,

AAZK Conference Proceedings (Animal Keepers' Forum) December 1985.

421

A New Zookeeper Association Is Born

By

Pierre Poirier, Veterinary Assistant
Granby Zoo, Quebec, Canada

(Editor's note: This paper was illustrated with a humoristic slide show at the Milwaukee
Conference)

"The first Quebec Zoo, Le Jardin Zoologique du Quebec, was founded about forty years
ago. In the same period, two other zoos - Montreal and Granby - were created and, in the
last twenty years, four zoos and two aquariums were added to Quebec's zoological sphere.

Except for Hemmingford's Park Safari that exploits the "drive-in concept", the other zoos
adopted European styles and look more like zoological gardens with emphasis put on
landscaping and horticultural work.

They all have varied animal collections, exotic and native, but many zoos have developed
a specialty: Quebec - birds and native species; Granby - reptiles and exotic species;
Montreal - sea lions and domestic animals exhibited in children's zoo style.

Some zoos are partly financed by the federal, provincial or municipal government; other
zoos must live and survive with tourist season revenues. For five zoos, this season lasts
five months from May to October because of the climate and the limited population. The
most important Quebec zoo welcomes about 400,000 visitors during these months.

These nine Quebec zoological institutions employ 207 persons, including 86 zookeepers in
winter. Summer is busier with 743 employees including 125 zookeepers.

Traditionally, Quebec zookeepers were laborers and former farmers. Now zoos are
requiring employees with a more specialized formation, involved in multifaceted aspects
of animal care. About ten years ago, the first Animal Health Technician was hired.
This diploma, which requires three years of post-high school studies, is now a
requirement for a zookeeper's job. Also, for the past years, three zoos have been making
training programs obligatory for all their zookeepers.

So Quebec zoos are in an important transition: on one side, they hire more and more
specialized employees, but on the other side, zookeeper's tasks are still routine such as
feeding and cleaning.

I must say that, despite some reticence, there is a strong motivation to enlarge zookeepers’
responsibilities.

Some zookeepers wanted to take an active part in this transformation and give new
dimensions to their profession. They have chosen to take concrete action by creating
AGAZ, l'Association des Gardiens d'Animaux de Zoo.

But let us begin at the beginning!

Summer '85, two zookeepers are talking, talking and talking about their jobs, a
profession they love. They want to do more but they feel isolated and lacking in the
appropriate tools. Where to find information about zoological fields and jobs? How to
increase competency? How to raise the zookeeper's interest and pride in being part of this
special profession?

Unfortunately, the language barrier makes English information and the American
Association of Zoo Keepers difficult to access.

422

A New Zookeeper Association is Born t Continued

Why not create funds to invite speakers, buy videos and subscribe to specialized
publications? One thing led to another, and the idea of an Association was bom.

Just one problem: money!

Problem? Money? No problem! Our first benefit was nothing less than a play! Seven
months of practice, two night a week, two performances in April '86 amass the fabulous
amount of $450.00!

That was enough to start. The first official meeting was held in July '86. We presented
our goals and showed the "Feeds and Feeding" video as an example of projects and
information sources.

August '86, second meeting. A president, secretary and a treasurer were elected.

Taking AAZK as a model, goals were adopted:

-to promote and establish good relationships among professional zookeepers; to
create greater interest in the zoo keeping profession.

-to support and promote zookeepers' concerns for conservation, research and
education in wildlife and natural resource fields.

-to participate in zookeepers' education.

And members were divided into the following classifications:

-Professional: zookeeper, aquarist, vet-assistant and trainer plus other persons
directly connected with the care and feeding of captive wildlife from recognized
institutions.

-Affiliate: other zoo and aquarium employees.

-Associate: any interested individual.

-Institutional: any zoo, aquarium, association or business that wants to support
AGAZ objectives.

September '86, it was time to find a logo representing the zoo field and the animal-human
relationship characteristic of the keeper's profession. After some research, and trials
and errors, we finally found it!

ASSOCIATION
DES GARDIENS
D’ANIMAUX DE ZOO

Official stationary, membership cards, badges and some pencils and we were almost
ready! Committees were lacking to prove that we were serious. Four committees please,
four committees thank you!

The ZOORNAL committee is responsible for the editing of our publication that comes out
four times a year

The EXCHANGES committee's objectives are to communicate with Canadian and
American institutions; to study the possibilities of exchange programs and to find
specialized publications.

423

A New Zookeeper Association is Born. Continued

The EDUCATION committee suggests videos and readings. It also organizes
conferences and workshops.

Finally, the SPECIAL PROJECTS committee has a commitment to think of ways to find
funds.

This time we were ready and made our first official appearance in September '86 at the
annual meeting of Quebec Association of Zoological Parks. There, we saw surprise and
smiles in reaction to our existence... very understandable! Even we were not sure of our
future!

A year later, we are the ones who are smiling! We are really happy and proud to still be
around and to number about 60 members from seven of the nine Quebec institutions which
is 25% of Quebec zoo employees.

After a very busy year, our four committees are still at work.

The ZOORNAL committee has just printed its fifth edition. In one year, the number of
pages in the ZOORNAL has tripled. The articles and quality of print have increased. In
the coming year, we would like to find sponsors to give our ZOORNAL a new look and
make it a publication for all francophone institutions. We have already found
collaborators in France. Le ZOORNAL will also edict guidelines and codes of ethics for
papers. We want it to be serious but still want our membership to identify with it.

The new COMMUNICATION committee is responsible for the promotion of the
Association, its activities and its membership. It will create an information network in
Quebec zoological institutions and medias. It will also try to increase membership
advantages.

The SPECIAL PROJECT committee is still looking for a project that will make our
association wealthy, or at least well-known! We have many ideas including a $15,000
major activity this spring. To be continued.....

The EDUCATION committee lived a very animated first year which included five
conferences on zoonoses, animal nutrition, London Zoo, Macaw reproduction, and
physiology of captured animals; two video projections ( "An Introduction to Feeds and
Feeding" and "Zookeeper Safety: An Attitude Adjustment"); and three zoo visits -
Quebec, Montreal and Toronto where we had the pleasure of meeting AAZK Toronto
Chapter members. During a very nice reception, we discussed at length our common
interests. For the coming year, this committee will keep going and diversify its
activities.

That's everything for now!

AGAZ thought it essential to be here with you today, for the beginning of new collaboration
and friendship. AAZK has already given a lot to our Association, and AGAZ hopes to
have the chance of helping you someday, perhaps by finding a bilingual zookeeper,
translating a technical term, a scientific name or the text of an information sign. AGAZ
members asked me to tell you that you have friends in Quebec. They also join me in
thanking the Milwaukee Chapter for the opportunity of introducing AGAZ and all of you
for your welcome. Thank you very much !

For more information contact: Association des Gardiens d'Animaux de Zoo, 347 Bourget,
Granby, Quebec, Canada J2G 1E8.

c?

424

Small Antelope Capture and Restraint

By

David Luce, Mammal Keeper
Dallas Zoo, Dallas, TX

Neotraginine or dwarf antelopes are a rarely exhibited group of animals and are
presently found in only 15 U.S. zoos (ISIS). They range in size from the diminutive
royal antelope (wt. 1.5-3kg) to the biera (wt. up to 27kg), from the delicately built dik diks
to the stocky and stoutly built klipspringers.

Not only do neotaginines vary physically, they also vary greatly in their disposition and
behavior. There are those which are timid and shy such as dik diks and some such as the
klipspringer which may be curious and aggressive. These variances in behavior and
stature pose numerous problems to the keeper who has to physically capture and restrain
these animals.

The purpose of this paper is to acquaint keepers with the techniques which have been
developed and are successfully employed at the Dallas Zoo, which presently houses four
species of neotraginine antelopes (Guenther's dik dik \Madooua suentheri smithi 1 .
Kirk's dik dik \ Madoqua kirki 1 . Klipspringer IQreotragus oreotragus 1 . and Suni
\Neotragus moschatus zuluensis 1 ). These techniques are used on almost a daily basis,
since the beginning of the year over 400 capture and restraint procedures have been
performed with the most serious injury to either animal or keeper being that of a small
scrape or bruise. Though in the past there have been incidents where animals have
broken legs and received spinal injuries and some keepers have received wounds both
minor and serious. The techniques covered will be broken down into four areas:
preparation, capture, restraint, and release.

PREPARATION

There are two areas of preparation which need to be covered prior to attempting to capture
and restrain an animal in order to maximize safety and eliminate confusion. The first
area of concern is the permanent structures or stalls in which the animal will be caught.
It is essential to eliminate areas where an animal may slip or get a leg caught, (i.e. wire
fencing and gaps between the floor and walls) by covering them with solid barriers (i.e.
plywood) which not only prevents legs from getting caught and injured but also reduces
injuries due to flight responses by eliminating visible escape routes.

The second area of preparation is that which occurs just prior to capture. A bed of hay
roughly 7.5 to 12.5cm is placed throughout the stall being sure to cover the entire floor with
particular emphasis being placed on the corners and gaps along the floor where there is
the slightest possibility to getting a leg caught.

The next area of concern is the preparation phase of planning. This basically
encompasses a discussion among those who will be involved in the procedure (keepers,
supervisors and veterinary staff) as to who is to be caught, what will we be doing once we
have the animal in hand, who will be the primary catcher and who will be assisting with
the restraint, what are the behavioral characteristics of the individuals to be caught and
how is the target animal to be maneuvered into the stall for capture?

The last area of concern in preparing for catching an animal is personal preparation (as
we refer to it - stripping). As the colloquial term indicates, those who will be involved in
the catching and restraining of the animal must remove their belts, watches, keys and
any other objects in which the animal may get its leg caught. This is extremely
important with animals such as dik diks and suni which have very delicate legs, which
if caught in a belt or watch strap could break.

425

Small Antelope Capture and Restraint. Continued

CAPTURE AND RESTRAINT

The capture and restraint procedure for each group of animals will be covered together as
when actually performing these tasks there is no clear delineation between the two steps
as they are so intertwined that if performed properly they become a single act.

Dik dik and Suni;

Due to the similarities in the size, build and behavior of dik dik and suni, the capture and
restraint of these two species is so similar that they will be covered together.

The major differences between the two species which have the greatest influence on the
capture and restraint procedure are: 1) dik diks are much quicker in their movements
and speed than suni; 2) dik diks tend to stay close or low to the ground and in some
instances will try to burrow into the bedding; and 3) some sunis have a tendency to jump,
which if not prevented or taken advantage of (mid-air catch) may result in either leg or
back injuries.

The capture and restraint process normally proceeds in the following manner. The
keeper who will be primarily responsible for catching the animal cautiously enters the
stall followed by the keeper who will be assisting in the restraint of the animal once it is
in hand. Though in those instances where the stall is only large enough for one keeper,
the keeper who will assist with the restraint waits just outside the stall until the animal is
grabbed by the primary keeper.

Once in the stall the animal is maneuvered into a position which offers the keeper the best
chance for the surest grab. If right handed, it is best to have the animal facing or moving
in a right to left direction, so that when grabbed the animal's head will be on your left side
and the hind quarters on your right (opposite if you are left handed). It is at this time,
while attempting to maneuver them into position, that the sunis who tend to jump will
start to look up. If corrective action is not taken, the animal will jump straight up,
reaching heights of 5 or 6 feet. To prevent suni from jumping, all one needs to do is to
hold your hand over the suni’s head. Though this normally works, there are times that
nothing you do will prevent them from jumping. When the animal is in what you judge
to be the best position to you, you quickly grab the animal with both hands around the chest
and pull it towards your chest. It is extremely important to bring the animal up to you as
we have found that keepers with experience in catching and restraining large hoofstock
will tend to push the animal down and if not stopped will injure a leg or back.

As the animal is pulled towards your chest, your outside hand slides back along the body
to the hips, gripping firmly with the thumb on the spine and the fingers around the
abdomen to lend back support. At the same time your inside hand (left) moves forward to
the forelegs, placing your thumb against the chest and the outside foreleg between your
second and third fingers. The assisting keeper at this juncture will, in the case of males,
grab the head securely by the horns to prevent injury to the catcher and they then grab the
rear legs above the hocks, holding firmly to prevent kicking. With females, the
assisting keeper will move to secure the rear legs first and then if the female is throwing
her head about, the head is then grabbed. When grabbing the rear legs it is important to
place fingers between them so as to prevent bruising. There is very little in the way of
muscle mass on the lower portion of their legs and they bruise very easily. Equally
important is preventing back or spinal injuries by providing good back support. When
the animal is under control, you are then ready to leave the stall - but be sure you have
complete control!

At first this position will seem very uncomfortable and your hands and arms will fatigue
quickly, but as you gain time and experience you will find your stamina will increase
and you will find better and more comfortable arm positions (arm holding forelegs
only).

426

Small Antelope Capture and Restraint, Continued

Klipspringer:

The capture and restraint techniques for klipspringers vary significantly from those
used for suni and dik diks. These variances are basically due to the great size of
klipspringer (2-3 times that of suni and dik dik), their physical adaptations to a rocky
habitat, predator escape mechanisms and their behavioral characteristics or disposition.
Prior to attempting to catch klipspringers it is necessary to beware of these variances.

The behavioral differences manifest themselves as soon as you try to maneuver the
target animal into the stall. As klipspringers tend to be stubborn and obstinate and in a
majority of instances will resist most attempts to get them inside and in doing so they
will go around, above and, in a few instances, try to go through the keepers.

The next behavioral difference which will manifest itself takes place as soon as you get
the animal locked inside. The once timid or standoffish animal will, in about 50% of the
cases, become a very aggressive individual who will take the offensive and will attempt
to attack. If you are prepared for this type of behavior it can be used to your advantage and
make the capture easier. In those instances where the animal does not become
aggressive, they will try to avoid you at all costs in which case they will quite often run up
and down the walls. The last behavioral characteristic which needs to be considered is
that no matter what the behavioral disposition of the individual is, once grabbed all
klipspringers will attempt to bite anyone in the vicinity.

The next point to consider prior to attempting to catch klipspringers is one of their
predator escape mechanisms. This mechanism is their coat which is made up of stiff,
bristlelike hairs which are easily released and will come out by the handful if the
animal’s coat is grabbed. Therefore it is very important to grab the body securely, not
just the coat.

The last point to consider is that of manpower. There should be at least three people
present to catch and restrain klipspringers.

Aggressive Capture:

Before you enter the stall you should be aware of the klipspringers location in the stall. If
the klipspringer is at the door waiting for you to enter, stoop down and slowly open the
door just wide enough to insert your hand. When the opening is wide enough you will
then insert your hand through the opening. The klipspringer will assume an attack or
defensive stance by lowering its head and pointing its horns at your hand. As you put
your hand through the opening, it is important to keep your hand open with fingers spread
and low to the ground as when klipspringers attack, they use an upward thrust; so by
keeping your hand low to the ground you reduce the possibility of having a horn thrust
into it.

Next, maneuver your hand as close to the head as possible so that when the klipspringer
does attack and its head comes into contact with your hand you are able to securely grab
it. Once you have a secure hold on the head, the others assisting with the capture enter the
stall with one person grabbing the body around the chest and abdomen and lifting it up
towards the chest (similar to picking up a small dog). As the klipspringer is lifted up, the
third keeper grabs the legs, above the hocks, preferably one leg per hand and applies
enough pressure to prevent kicking. Again it cannot be stressed too much or too often to
maintain a secure hold on the head as several keepers have had horns embedded in
arms, hands, necks and faces when the head is not securely held. This also prevents the
animal from biting.

In those instances where the animal is not waiting for you at the door, the only change in
the procedure is in the first initial steps, as now you will or should be able to control the
situation.

427

Small Antelope Capture and Restraint. Continued

ReeingC.apiJAm

In this type of capture two keepers will enter the stall and try to contain the animal in a
portion of the stall. While attempting to do this, they will make attempts at catching the
animal when it presents itself by grabbing the body (not just the coat). When the animal
is grabbed, the second keeper will try to secure the head as quickly as possible. Once the
head is secured the body is lifted and the animal is restrained as previously described in
the aggressive capture. Again it is important to not grab the coat as all you will end up
with is a handful of hair and you will remove a good sized portion of the animal's coat.

HE LEAS IN G

The releasing of the animal that you have had in hand may seem trivial when compared
to the capture and restraint procedure, but it is no less important, as an improper or early
release can result in injury to either the animal or keeper.

The basic procedure, which is used for all neotraginine antelopes, is to enter the stall with
all personnel maintaining their hold on the animal. The door leading to the exhibit is
opened providing an escape route for the animal once it has been released. In the case of
suni and dik dik, the assisting keeper is instructed by the keeper holding the body when
they are to release the rear legs. When the rear legs are released, the keeper lowers
him/herself with the animal to the bed, orienting the animal towards the open door. The
animal is set down in the bed and released. Upon releasing the animal you must be alert,
as once the animal touches down they may leap straight up, do a back flip or run into the
wall or door.

Klipspringer releases are slightly more coordinated in that when the animal is lowered
towards the bed, one of the keepers will initiate a three-count at the end of which all
keepers release their hold on the animal simultaneously. Generally the klipspringer
will bolt out the door, but be alert for the aggressive individual who may turn and take a
parting shot at you.

RECORDKEEPING

After each capture and restraint procedure, the small antelope restraint log is filled out
recording which animal was caught (species, sex and house name), ID number, who was
the primary catcher, other personnel present and assisting with the capture, and
comments, such as time it took to catch the animals, the temperature and any notations
which may be useful in the future.

Acknowledgments

I would like to acknowledge and thank the
many keepers and staff who, over the years,
have helped in many ways in the development
of these techniques. And special thanks to Dr.
Bonnie Raphael for her valuable insights and
assistance and Joe Christman for his
videotaping of our procedures.

$

428

The Successful Introduction and
Resocialization of Chimpanzees

By

Leslie Field , Zoo Keeper
Sacramento Zoo , Sacramento , CA

Historically, zoos were menageries, keeping
pairs of numerous species in small cages
with little regard for the social or behavioral
needs of the animals. Fortunately, the trend
today is toward fewer species enclosed in
more spacious displays which simulate their

natural environment. The Sacramento Zoo is one of many zoos across the nation that are
following this trend.

The Sacramento Zoo has housed Chimpanzees ( Pan troglodytes ) since 1948. The original
facility was made of concrete and chain link mesh, measuring 3.1 x 9.6 x 3.1m (10 x 15 x
10ft.). This small space, actually two displays, had been the home of our three
chimpanzees since the 1960’s. In 1986, a new chimpanzee exhibit was completed to house
our chimps and a new female addition.

The chimpanzees' personalities are characterized as follows. Sam is a 39-year-old male
who has been at the zoo since the age of three. He is a quiet, reserved animal showing few
adverse affects from his poor environment.

Judy is a 24-year-old female who arrived at the zoo when she was four. She and Sam have
always been close, as in a brother- sister relationship, relying on one another for support.
Judy is an extremely curious chimpanzee, as well as a dexterous tool user. However,
when stressed or upset, she often puts her hand or shoulder to her head in reaction to the
situation.

The third member of the group, a male named Joey, also came to the zoo at the age of four
and is now 24 years old. He is the most active, animated and independent member. His
behavioral displays and tantrums are quite exaggerated, showing the most negative
behavior from his confined environment. He pulls the hairs from his wrists, inverts his
lower lip, masturbates, and repeats small hand and foot movements. He throws
numerous tantrums each day, aggressions directed mostly toward the public.

In August 1986, we received a 23-year-old female chimpanzee named Josie from the
Mickie Grove Zoo in Lodi, CA. She was housed with one male from age seven until his
death in March 1986. While arrangements were being made for Josie's move to the
Sacramento Zoo, our new chimpanzee exhibit was being completed.

The new exhibit was built on the site of the 35-year-old Gorilla ( Gorilla gorilla ) and
Orangutan ( Pongo pvgmaeus abelii) grottos. These grottos were torn down, but the
holding and den facilities were kept for the new exhibit. The new domed exhibit
measures 7.9 x 21.4 x 15.3m (26 x 70 x 50ft.) with twelve 2.5cm (1") thick glass panels
surrounding the front of the display. The interior is planted with grass, bamboo and other
plants. The exterior walls of the display and the walls of the public viewing area are
covered with artificial rock material. There are numerous trees, ropes, rocks and fallen
logs for the chimpanzees to climb and swing on. We also included an artificial termite
mound for their recreational use.

On 19 August, 1986, all four chimpanzees were given complete physical examinations
and then moved to their new den area. Josie, the new chimp, was secluded from the others

429

The Successful Introduction & Resocialization

of Chimpanzees. Continued

at this time for a six week quarantine period. The three original chimpanzees became
accustomed to their new surroundings within several days and were then released onto
the new display. Because their lives were spent behind chain link, we were concerned
about their initial reaction to the glass. As a precaution, clay and water were mixed and
spread on the windows, then slowly removed.

Following Josie’s quarantine, a 10- week introduction process was initiated with Josie's
visual contact with the others through the dens. As expected following the initial visual
contact, all the chimps expressed their excitement by screaming, hooting and banging on
the walls and doors. The next day we tried again, the screaming and banging continued.
By afternoon all was calm except for Josie, who was quite agitated and distressed.

During the third week of the introduction period, Joey was put into the den next to Josie.
Two days later Joey and Josie were placed together. Joey was very interested in the new
female. He would not venture outside unless accompanied by Josie. During the fourth
and fifth weeks, the two pairs, Joey with Josie and Sam with Judy, were alternated on
display. Visual contact between the pairs was allowed at nights in the dens.

At week seven, Josie and Sam were introduced for one hour with no problems. Then Joey
was allowed in and he began screaming, becoming extremely aggressive toward the
pair. Both Sam and Josie wanted reassurances from Joey. This went on for ten minutes
until Josie was removed. We realized that Sam and Joey needed time to reestablish their
relationship after being separated for four weeks. Josie was then returned and
everything seemed alright, but tense.

During week nine, Josie was introduced to Judy without incident. At week ten, the four
were put together in the dens. There was some screaming and even hugging, but no
serious negative reaction. That afternoon they were allowed on display for the first time
together. With the introduction successfully completed, many behavioral changes
became evident.

In their original small display, most of their attention and activities were directed toward
the public. In fact, the public would seek the display with the intent of irritating the
chimpanzees, bringing out their riotous behavior. As a group, their daily activity pattern
was quite routine. A stimulus, such as a siren or a large crowd of people, would excite the
group. Within a few minutes the group would calm and continue to rest. This was
repeated throughout the day. Sexual or breeding behavior was not observed.

Their social roles within the group were also well defined. Joey was the dominant
animal, often the instigator of frequent riots. Sam's role was the mediator. He had a
close relationship with Judy and a strong bond with Joey. His time was spent divided
between the two, comforting and reassuring them during these periods of excitement.
Judy seemed to try to remove herself from the situation by withdrawing and moving to the
sides or corners of the exhibit.

The behavioral changes which took place in the new display are exciting. They result
from a new, stimulating environment, and an added individual to the established group.
They fashion sticks for use in the termite mound, make beds from browse material and
spend time grooming each other.

Now their social roles within the group are not as well defined. Joey is still independent,
but only seemingly dominant. He still incites riots, but the other three chimpanzees chase
and chastise him for this behavior. He continues to be in the periphery of the society with
no close ties to the other members. He acts as the sentry always on guard and alert.

Sam's behavior has changed dramatically. Three months after the introduction to Josie,
breeding was observed. Although Sam appears to be subordinate to Joey, Sam has shown
signs of challenging Joey's dominance.

430

The Successful Introduction & Resocialization

of Chimpanzees. Continued

Judy continues to have a close relationship with Sam and now a good relationship with
Josie. Judy is no longer a withdrawn individual on the sidelines as she was in the old
display. She now participates in the social activities around her. Judy's estrus swellings
are very subtle and have little affect on her personality or on her exhibit mates.

Josie has a good rapport with all the chimpanzees. Her sexual swellings are very
pronounced and are responsible for changes in her attitude as well as those around her.
In fact, at the peak of the swellings, she and Sam became inseparable and extremely
protective of one another.

We have not observed any negative effects from the addition of the new chimpanzee, nor
from changing their environment. Other interesting developments include fairly
regular copulation between Sam and Josie, yet without pregnancy, and even oral
copulation between the two males. The frequency of riotous behavior has declined
dramatically. Many of the neurotic, negative behavioral patterns seen in the old display
are no longer observed.

In summary, the group's successful introduction to Josie and their new environment, has
dramatically modified the group's social behavior. Although we are unable to
conclusively distinguish which of these factors contributed most significantly to their
behavioral changes, we believe their new exhibit has had the most profound influence.

The natural substrate and space provide tools for the chimpanzees to behave more
naturally and instinctively. Making sponges from palm fronds, fashioning sticks for
the termite mound and sleeping in trees are only a few examples. It is truly amazing that
after decades spent in a nonstimulating environment, normal wild chimpanzee
behaviors are now observed.

The new chimpanzee group has been together for ten months and there is no doubt that the
chimpanzees will continue to change. What is reported here is the beginning of the
group's evolution. We look forward to observing more positive changes.

431

Zookeeper and Other Staff Training
in India: Some Pioneer Efforts

By

Sally Walker, Chairperson
Zoo Outreach Organization International

Training in zoo and wild animal management for middle and keeper-level staff has
been a long felt need in Third World countries. Almost without exception, higher level
staff in these countries belong to large departments which transfer them to a different post
and position every few years. The transfer system has many administrative
advantages, but it has proven less than optimum in zoos where care of live animals and
construction of suitable environments for them require commitment and continuity as
well as expertise.

Middle and keeper level staff, many of whom are permanent or "confirmed", can fill the
void created by these transfers if they possess basic technical knowledge. They can at
least provide the continuity so important to an animal facility.

In 1982 the Friends of Mysore Zoo, India's first volunteer zoo society, made a valiant
attempt to introduce keeper education at the Mysore Zoo by scheduling weekly, one hour
lectures on nature conservation and animal care. Inviting wildlife care and
conservation experts fluent in the local language to speak and show slides and live
animals, the program drew a response that amazed the management and there was a full
house for three weeks. However, the fourth week no one came. It emerged that the keepers
had been told by a staff member that the Friends of the Mysore Zoo were in league with
upper management and planned to take their photo and give it to the police! There had
been some union trouble and the keepers believed the mischievous rumor. The Friends of
Mysore Zoo, experiencing the first of many such traumas, lay low for some time on keeper
education.

In 1983, a female chimpanzee who regularly rejected her offspring became pregnant. The
Friends of Mysore Zoo, drawing on literature from generous zoo societies around the
world, attempted to train her to pick up her baby correctly by using a doll for practice.
Keepers were involved in the project although they were embarrassed to participate
directly. They were impressed when the baby came and Anjali picked it up and carried it
properly. She did not nurse it however and it had to be removed for hand-rearing. The
Friends of Mysore Zoo had collected a variety of notes and systems for a hand-rearing
facility, and were entrusted with setting one up in the zoo. Three bright, young and soft-
natured keepers were chosen and instructed in sanitation techniques and scheduled
feeding. When we say "instructed" it means that the Friends just took their turn at
caring for the baby chimp and did it by the book. The keepers, who were previously
unfamiliar with systematic feeding and hygiene, fell in with the new techniques and use
them today. Not one had the impression he was being taught anything, yet all learned
new ways.

In 1984, FMZ attempted a very ambitious project in connection with a visit by Dr. Nan
Schaeffer of the Chicago area zoos. Dr. Schaeffer had come to India in reference to a Gir
lion project and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service who sponsored her trip attached a two-
day keeper education workshop on to her schedule. Unfortunately, a Pan Am strike and
some local problems prevented the workshop from running the full time. Out-of-towners
who had signed up had to be informed that she might not come on schedule. The Mysore
Zoo staff enjoyed the shortened version however and the concept of training of this type
was proven viable.

In 1985, some members of Friends of Mysore Zoo from different cities caught hold of some
graduates of the Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust Training Centre and formed a new
and more broad-based association with aims and objectives based on what has been

432

Zookeeper and Other Staff Training In India: Some Pioneer

Efforts. Continued

learned (and suffered) through trial and error at Mysore Zoo. Zoo Outreach
Organization, India was launched with one of the main objectives to supply ALL Indian
zoos with basic technical animal husbandry training material. To avoid complications
we decided to avoid workshops and other live performances for some time and stuck to
printed literature of a high quality which could be utilized by various levels of staff at
their convenience.

Since most printed materials of this type are from western zoos, we were anxious to avoid
creating an impression that our efforts were some sort of Marshall Plan for Zoos - of
foreigners condescending to a poor country. (Zoo Outreach in fact has only one member
who is not an Indian citizen.) India's zoo history is probably the oldest in the world and it
is circumstance rather than a lack of interest or ability that has led to the zoos lagging
behind a bit. Therefore we made sure that local expertise and funding was sought and
utilized. All projects are truly an international stew with the basic broth, Indian.

One of the circumstances which has crippled Indian zoo education is the unfavorable
exchange rate of rupees to dollars. When an Indian zoo or individual wants to purchase a
book or periodical, it costs twelve times as much as it would for someone from the west plus
postage. A rupee is one twelfth of a dollar to an American, but a rupee IS a dollar to an
Indian making a rupee salary in India. Therefore the price of publications is extremely
high. A way had to be found first and foremost to insure that Indian zoo personnel could
have access to the printed word about their field.

Zoo Outreach Organization submitted a grant and received funding from the
Government of India, Department of Environment for equipment to facilitate duplication
and dissemination of printed materials for all types of zoos. The proposal was actually
concerned with environmental education in zoos however so there was no budget for
"paper and ink" to produce the technical animal husbandry materials we so wanted to
distribute. Therefore we had to depend on a variety of other institutions and individuals
both in India and abroad to fund this aspect.

A Technical Notebook

The materials themselves have been donated by a great variety of zoos and animal
facilities around the world. We could not have paid for them due to the same foreign
currency problems that plague the zoos. But when we wrote zoos and explained the
problem and that we could turn their one copy into 150, free of cost to Indian zoos, few
refused and we have a vast library of in-house husbandry and educational materials
which we draw on for our monthly ZOO ZEN. ZOO ZEN is a 40-75 page xeroxed
"magazine" on a single subject which is useful to zoo personnel. This publication has
been very popular and is utilized by zoos, colleges and departments in their training.

The American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums (AAZPA) and the
American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) have contributed the most materials and we
are still drawing on their vast collections.

For the zookeeper himself, who is often not literate but never English speaking, we drew
simple basic articles from the Animal Keepers' Forum and requested our friends from
various Indian zoos and wildlife organizations to translate them. Thus an occasional
bulletin, Pashu Prem, was launched for Hindi speaking keepers. The American
Association of Zoo Keepers was asked to sponsor the first issue, more for the symbolic
value than the finance involved. It was done and an excellent response came from the
zoos to which we sent the publication. Directors sent the names of zookeepers who were
literate in Hindi so that they could receive it and we are now putting together an issue
consisting of some articles in original Hindi as well as translations.

433

Zookeeper and Other Staff Training In India: Some Pioneer

Efforts. Continued

Incidentally, Pashu Prem means "(the highest form of) love of (all) animals" in the
Hindi language. Coincidentally, the cover we used for Pashu Prem had been "borrowed"
from an old AKF cover and Indianized by added a moustache and some shading to the
touching drawing of a keeper feeding a baby deer. The keeper turned out to be one of the
founders of AAZK, Dick Sweeny.

Sponsorship in AAZK for Indian Zoo Personnel

In touring Indian zoos we had located a few special keepers and supervisory personnel
with a sincere interest in their animals and in their institutions. In order to encourage
and recognize them without creating ripples in their local zoo's political pond, we
requested that AAZK invite Chapters and individuals to sponsor an Indian keeper or
staffer by paying his membership dues in AAZK so that he could receive the AKF .

To test the project we began with two Head Keepers who were known to have very broad
minded directors. We got permission first from the directors. There was some concern
that directors might resent their keepers belonging to an American Association and
receiving a magazine when they themselves had no such affiliation. At the same time,
because of the social distance between zookeepers and management is so extreme in
India, we could not comfortably offer a director a membership in a zookeeper association.

Because we knew the people involved and could choose carefully, this has worked without
a hitch so far. Now six Indian zoo people have been sponsored and twelve more are
awaiting sponsorship. Improvements in this program, such as sending an additional
copy of AKF to the director of the zoo, are now in the works.

Animal Management Correspondence Course

A further refinement of the sponsorship idea has been to enroll highly motivated and
literate zoo personnel in the excellent Animal Management Correspondence course. The
Atlanta Zoo Chapter of AAZK started the ball rolling by paying Pundrika Rao's (Mysore
Zoo) fees in the course. This gesture inspired the St. Andrew's Animal Fund in Scotland
to donate five courses and now there are six animal people in various zoos and institutes
in India taking this course. We think more chapters will ultimately do this for their
keeper or sponsoree and when enough people have completed the course, we will appeal to
generous conservation organizations to sponsor bringing an examiner to India to
administer the examination. Then Indian zoo personnel can obtain a certificate from
abroad without ever having to leave India.

Providing Audio-visuals of Modem-Zoo Managements Education Programs and Signage

and Endosure.Dgsign to Indian Z oo Personnel

Last year the organizer of Zoo Outreach Organization visited Japan, Canada and the
United States to collect materials and photographs of modern zoos. This was
accomplished on a budget that was terribly low and it would not have been possible without
the cooperation of the AAZPA and AAZK members in many cities and states who provided
time, energy, lodging, and in some instances even film, to assemble a collection of over
1500 slides of every aspect of the modern zoo.

These slides have been exhibited to over two dozen zoos in India in the last six months to
every level of related personnel from Forest Minister to keepers.

Persons planning new zoos in India have requested the slides and at least one of these
changed their entire plan after seeing such noteworthy exhibits as the Kopje Center of San
Diego Zoo.

434

Zookeeper and Other Staff Training In India: Some Pioneer

Efforts. Continued

In showing these slides no attempt is made to tell the Indian zoo personnel they should "do
it this way". It is only an aid to inspiration and meant to be transposed into the conditions
which would suit India.

We have submitted a proposal to the Government of India for funds to duplicate these and
other slides since collected of a dozen good Indian zoos and their enclosures so that every
state can have a set for reference.

Conclusion

So many things Zoo Outreach Organization has accomplished have been said to be
unworkable or impossible. We work on a very low budget, both of time and expectations.
If anything at all comes out of a project we are more than satisfied and we feel that this
attitude of "give as much as possible and expect nothing" is a productive one for working
in developing countries. Nothing would have been accomplished without the melting pot
of materials and assistance from so many countries and continents. We hope that the
western zoos will have the chance to benefit from some of the expertise we have discovered
in India.

435

UDDERLY FANTASTIC:

An Overview of the Mammalian
Mammary System

By

Jeffrey D. Polcen, Animal Keeper
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Cleveland, OH

Introduction

The group of animals known as mammals encompasses between four and five thousand
species ranging in size from Kitti's Hog-nosed Bat (Craseonvcteris thonglongvai) at 1.5
grams to the 137 metric ton Blue Whale (Balaenoptera musculus) . The diverse species
share to one degree or another the common characteristics which distinguishes them as
mammals, notably the ability to regulate internal body temperature (endothermy), the
presence of hair and specialized skin structures such as the sweat and mammary
glands.

The mammary gland as a milk secreting structure affords the young mammal a steady
nutritional regime throughout the critical period of growth and development. This
removes the young from having to compete in the surrounding environment for food.
This gland varies in both structure and functional capabilities over the wide range of
mammalisn species. Factors which influence this diversity include litter size,
environmental conditions and the overall body plan of the mammal in question.

Mammary Gland Diversity

Three anatomical sites account for the majority of mammary gland location:

Thoracic/Pectoral Region: Primates, Proboscidea

Abdominal Region: Carnivores - families Felidae and Canidae

Inguinal Region: Perissodactyla/Artiodactyla

Those mammalian species with mammary sites along the abdominal underline are
more noted for having multiple offspring necessitating glands that are at least partially
if not completely external of the body. In marine mammals, the need for a streamlined
body and a habitat which often includes the frigid waters of the polar regions, necessitates
a mammary gland within the body. In whales, the gland is located beneath a thick
insulating layer of blubber. Seals, instead of having a concentrated mass of glandular
tissue have this tissue spread out in a layer over their lower surface and flanks. In both
the orders Cetacea and Pinnipedia, the nipples are retracted and lie flush with the body
surface. To facilitate nursing the nipples are extended through abdominal slit(s) by
muscular contractions. In the Cetaceans, a circular muscle arrangement around the
mammary gland literally squirts the milk into the mouth of the nursing calf thereby
compensating for the need of getting the greatest volume of milk in the shortest period of
time since the nursing usually takes place under water. (MacDonald, 1984).

Monotremes

Mammary gland structure often reflect on the overall complexity of the particular
mammal specie. Monotremes and marsupials are considered to have primitive
mammary glands which coincide with their classification as nonplacental mammals

436

Udderlv Fantastic: An Overview of the Mammalian

Mammary System. Continued

and the young at birth being less developed (altricial). As opposed to the higher order
placental mammals, monotremes like the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus ) and the
Short-beaked Echidna ( Tachyglossus aculeatus) have mammary glands which are fully
differentiated at sexual maturity. The glands develop to the lactational stage in both
sexes but only secrete milk in the females nursing young. The glands are located on the
underside of the body. There is no teat or nipple present but rather an areolar surface or
"milk patch". The milk is secreted to the skin surface. Rather than licking up the milk,
the young, especially in the echidna, have been found to suckle vigorously, taking in 10%
of their body weight in a 20-30 minute nursing period. (Dawson, 1983; Gordon, 1977).

Marsupials

Marsupials achieve lacational capabilities upon reaching sexual maturity but only in the
female. Gestation has no effect on the mammary glands. In the phlanger ( Trichosures
spp.) and the opossum ( Didelphis spp.) the status of the secretory tissue and the weight of
the mammary glands were found to be the same in nonmated females as well as in
females that went through pregnancy and delivered young. Both groups were in the same
post-estrous stage. If young were placed in the pouch of a nonpregnant post-estrous
female, they would suckle normally. The incompletely developed young are born,
weighing in the case of the Eastern Gray Kangaroo (Macropus giganteus ) only .8 grams.
The marsupial young crawl in most instances into a pouch and attach to a single teat
which expands to secure the attachment. Mammary sites range from four in kangaroo
and wallaby species to 19 in the Pale-bellied Mouse Opossum (Marmosa robinsoni) . The
mammary gland only begins secreting milk when the offspring attaches to the teat. A
majority of the marsupial's development takes place during this nursing period.
Kangaroo species have the ability that if two offspring are nursing in the pouch, the fat
content of the milk will differ at each of the two mammary sites depending on what stage
of development the nursing offspring are at. This fat content can range from zero up to
20 %.

The Placental Mammals

The placental mammals constitute a majority of the mammalian species and also
exhibit extremes in the developmental stages of the mammary system. The female Black-
footed Ferret (Mustela nigripes ) undergoes mammary development only after becoming
pregnant. On the whole, mammary development in the higher mammals may be divided
into four phases: prepubertal, pubertal, gestational and lactational. The development in
each phase is controlled and/or enhanced by a combination of specific hormones. The
ovary secretes estrogen and progesterone which promote mammary duct and secretory
tissue development. Prolactin from the anterior pituitary along with GH (growth
hormone) and ACTH (Adrenocorticotrophic hormone) enhance the development of the
gland in combination with estrogen and progesterone. In varying concentrations they
are also required for initiation and maintenance of lactation during the later stages of
gestation and after parturition. Structurally, the mammary system in higher mammals
tends to be more complex with more extensive secretory tissue and anatomical features
which allow for greater adaptability in the large number of higher mammals. (Gordon,
1977; Groves, 1972; Campbell, 1975).

Mammary Gland Anatomy and Physiology

The dairy cow (Bos taurus) makes an excellent subject to examine the mammary system.
Due to the dairy cow's economic relationship with man plus the use of selective breeding
and feed management coupled with genetic research - a mammal with a very highly
developed mammary system has afforded scientists and researchers the opportunity to
study and document the mammary gland on the anatomical, cellular and hormonal
levels.

The bovine mammary gland, commonly known as the udder, is essentially an external

437

Udderlv Fantastic: An Overview of the Mammalian

Mammary System. Continued

skin gland. Its only connection with the body cavity is the inguinal canal which the
vessels of lymphatic, nervous and circulatory system go through before innervating the
udder. The udder is divided into two halves with two quarters for each half. Each quarter
has a separate duct and milk secretory network with a single teat to facilitate milk
removal. The susensory apparatus consisting of seven tissues maintains the shape of the
udder. These tissues include the outer skin and a strategically placed collection of
tendons and ligaments. The medial suspensory ligament, for example, is responsible
for the degree of cleft and separation of the rear quarters. These supporting tissues also
possess a high degree of elasticity, stretching and retracting with the amount of milk the
udder is holding.

Arterial blood

FIGURE 1: The blood vessels and myoepithelial cells surrounding an

alveolus. (C. W. Turner, The Mammary Gland, Lucas Brothers
Publishers, Columbia, MO. 1952.)

The udder circulatory system is very extensive, between 300-500 volumes of blood are
required to produce one volume of milk. The main blood supply is through the external
pudic artery which enters through the inguinal canal and branches off into the cranial
and caudal portions. Each arterial portion has a corresponding vein. The flow of blood
out of the udder is primarily through the subcutaneous abdominal vein, also known as the
"Milk Vein". The vein, one branch on each side of the udder travels along the
abdominal underline and enters the body cavity through an opening in the abdominal
musculature; there the vein connects with the internal thoracic vein which leads to the
heart. The lymphatic system is usually seen as a tortuous network of vessels just under
the udder skin. These vessels, along with the supplementary lymph node act as a
filtration system for the blood plasma, cellular extra fluid and microorganisms within
the udder. The filtered lymph passes through the lymph node and is carried to the heart by
way of the venous system. The lymphatic network also releases white blood cells into the
udder vascular system to control localized infections.

Internally, the mammary gland is a network of varying size ducts and secretory tissue
suspended within the connective and adipose (fat) tissues of the udder. The teat opening
is controlled by the sphincter muscle. The degree of muscle tone controls the leakage of
milk from the udder and serves as a barrier against bacterial infections. The streak
canal within the teat connects with the teat cistern and leads into the gland cistern. This

438

Udderlv Fantastic: An Overview of the Mammalian

Mammary System. Continued

cistern acts as a collecting site for the milk that is transported by the large milk ducts
which terminate at the gland cistern. As the duct network connects with the secretory
tissue, the ducts get smaller and branch out more in order to accommodate the large
amount of secretory tissue and space for the secondary (lactiferous) sinuses. This tissue
can be compared to a cluster of grapes. A single milk producing site is known as an
alveolus, a group of these alveoli constitute a lobule and group of lobules make a lobe.
Each alveolus is connected by a capillary duct into the network of milk ducts. The alveoli
are very small ranging from ,1mm to .4mm in diameter with approximately 60,000 per
cubic centimeter. The alveolus is a hollow sphere lined internally with milk secreting
epithelial cells. The outside surface of the alveolus contains a network of arterioles,
venuoles and nerve fibers. The blood supplies the necessary constituents to the epithelial
cells which in turn use these constituents to manufacture milk components.

Days 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220 240 260 280 20 40 60 80 100 120

Growth of udder — — — — ■■■ ■ —

Initiation of lactation

■=3

Pregnancy

Lactation —

FIGURE 2: Endocrine control of the growth of the udder, which is stimulated by
progesterone and estrogen during pregnancy. Later the increasing
secretion of estrogen by the placenta stimulates the secretion of prolactin
(lactogen), which stimulates the initiation of lactation by the epithelial
cells of the udder. The rapid rise of estrogen secretion in late pregnancy
also overrides the physiological function of progesterone (which normally
maintains pregnancy) and aids in the initiation of parturition. In experi-
mental animals, the withdrawal of progesterone and the injection of
estrogen similarly stimulate the secretion of prolactin and initiate lactation.
Following parturition and removal of the placenta, secretion of estrogen
quickly drops, and maintenance of the secretion of prolactin is caused by
the regular discharge of the hormones stimulated by milking. ( Missouri
Agr. Expt. Sta. Bull 836, 1966).

439

Udderlv Fantastic: An Overview of the Mammalian

Mammary System. Continued

For example, protein synthesis occurs by the epithelial cell using component amino
acids from the blood. The epithelial cells release the milk into the alveolar lumen.
These include protein, water carbohydrates, fats, immunoglobulins, vitamins and
minerals. In addition to the nerve and circulatory network, the surface of the alveolus is
covered with specialized cells called myo-epithelial cells. These are involved in the
process of milk let down. A stimulus to the udder, usually a nursing offspring, initiates a
nerve signal to the hypothalmus which causes the release of the hormone oxytocin from
the posterior pituitary gland into the blood stream. The oxytocin binds to receptor sites on
the myo-epithelial cells causing them to contract and force the milk from the alveolus
lumen into the milk ducts. This occurs 45 seconds to one minute after stimulus. A
nursing female which is under stress or in a similar excitable condition will not achieve
milk let down due to the effects of adrenaline which block the oxytocin from bonding to the
myo-epithelial cell receptor sites. (Frandson, 1975; Campbell, 1975).

Conclusion

Milk composition varies a great deal throughout the mammalian species. Each milk
formulation is designed for the needs of a particular offspring or groups of offspring.
This formulation is also a reflection on the environment and the type and availability of
nutrients. Besides just providing food for the young, the advent of the mammary system
led to the increasing importance of parent/offspring interactions and the establishment
of a higher degree of social order. The mammary system is a true biological factory with
a wide range of products for the mammalian world.

References

Campbell, J.R., Lasley, J.F., The Science of Animals that Serve Mankind.
pp. 262-289. 1975.

Dawson, T.J., Monotremes and Marsupials; The Other mammals.
p. 19. 1983.

Frandson, R.D., Anatomy and Physiology of Farm Animals.
pp.392-397, 400-401 .1975.

Gordon, M.S., Animal Physiology: Principles and Adaptations.
pp.672-674. 1977.

Groves, C.P., "Mammals" - Encyclopedia of the Animal World.

Vol. 13, pp. 1163-71. 1972.

MacDonald, D., The Encyclopedia of Mammals.
pp.4, 6-9, 162-63, 240, 790, 829. 1984.

Acknowledgments

I would like to thank Gina Peysha, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Education Department and
Scott Wright, Australasia head keeper for their technical assistance and time they
devoted for this paper and the accompanying slides.

&

440

How I Learned to Stop Worrying
and Love My Landscape Architect

By

Elandra Awn, Keeper
Woodland Park Zoological Gardens
Seattle, WA

Experience is a teacher
But here's what makes me burn;
It's always teaching me things
I wouldn't care to learn.
---Anonymous

As some of you saw at the 1984 National Conference, Woodland Park Zoological Gardens
has had some renovations over the last few years, some keeper-generated, and some with
keeper participation in planning. During those renovations, we who have taken part
have learned a bit about planning renovations, and about dealing with others who take
part in the planning.

Here are some observations, from my own point of view, along with some suggestions
and cautions about planning renovations. I hope you find them useful.

During the planning of the African Savanna, we of course discussed the logistics of
moving the giraffe (Giraffa reticulata ) etc. from their old enclosures to the new facility.
One architect innocently remarked that he thought we could just open the gates, "shoo
them" out of the only enclosures they'd known for years, down a long walkway, and into
their new barn.

Now, to you and me, who are familiar with giraffe, by reputation if not experience, such
an idea is ludicrous, of course. But an architect cannot and should not be expected to
know about the daily reality of caring for animals; that's our job. Design is their job.
This incident is a great example of just why we were asked to participate.

Now, by "landscape architect", I don’t mean zookeepers who also renovate enclosures,
though much of this discussion can be applied to anyone who participates in the planning.
I am talking about people who make their living designing facilities, and who are hired
by your zoo for that purpose.

Remember that: They are hired by your facility. The architect works for the client, not
the other way around. It is the architects' job to provide what the client needs, not to spend
the clients' money on what the architects consider important, but the client doesn't.

I’ve heard architects say, "We can't do that." Hearing some of the reasons they’ve
given, I sometimes think that "We can't do that" often means "We don't want to do that",
or "I don't immediately see how we can do that, and I'm not inclined to try." Or even,
lamentably, "That would cut into our profits too much".

In response to "We can't do that", ask, "Why?" "How come?" "How do you know you
can't? You haven’t even tried."

441

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Mv Landscape

Architect. Continued

During the early planning stages, I've heard it said that "It isn't set in concrete." Well,
it very well could be, five minutes later. If a feature needs to be changed, get it changed
promptly.

In short, there will be certain catch phrases that should set the alarm bells ringing. It's
intelligent to learn the catch phrases your planners use most often, and to respond
quickly and to the point. Otherwise, you may let yourself be lulled to sleep by, "It's not set
in concrete. Don't worry about it; it'll be all right." And by the time you wake up, it's too
late to effect those changes you wanted. The exhibit is already being built.

Now, my experience tells me that I could have dealt more effectively with the architects
from the start had I learned to read blueprints and specifications, before starting on zoo
planning. And it tells me that I would have caught a lot of stuff before the exhibit was built
had I known what I was looking at. At first, plans were a bewildering array of lines and
symbols, jargon and jabberwocky. And, had I had some learning and practical
experience under by belt before the first meeting, I could have dealt more confidently with
our architects, who were real good at assuming an air of omniscience.

For instance, in our wetlands exhibit, large gunite ponds went in with surrounding
ditches into which expensive aquatic soil was placed. But there were no water plants to
hold the soil, which started washing into the gunite ponds, immediately they were filled.
Then the surrounding soil began to go, and with it, the land plants. We cannibalized
emergents from other areas to halt the erosion. At last we had to haul in rock to stop the
process-labor intensive, costly and unnecessary. Had I but known what I was looking
at. The planting diagram looked nice to my inexperienced eye.

Therefore, I cannot recommend strongly enough that you learn to read blueprints and
specifications. Do that now. Get in some practice before the real thing comes along.

Another highly important item is research— not vivisection, not manipulation of
animals, but simply the process of asking a question, and then looking for answers. So
when you start thinking about a new enclosure, you ask yourself such questions as: What
physical, social and psychological characteristics do I need to consider in giving this
species a high quality environment? Some of the answers exist in your experience with
the species: Size. Strength. Climbing or flying ability. And so on. For the rest, you talk to
other knowledgeable people and you look in books, and you observe your animals with
your specific questions in mind. Then you take your best guess.

One researcher, in this spirit, got some others together, spent a lot of time observing our
gorillas ( Gorilla gorilla) , and compiled an excellent report which was part of the
foundation for planning the gorilla enclosures. Many keepers here agree that the exhibit
works well for the gorillas. I think it's the most workable of the new enclosures and I
think it's no accident.

By contrast: In the marsh exhibit some planners feared that if the wood were pressure
treated with creosote, the preservative would leach into the surrounding soil and poison
the plants and animals. So we used untreated wood. Now, less than a decade later, the
wood has rotted at ground level and has had to be replaced. A bit more research would
have revealed that the treated wood would be okay, and we would have saved the extra
trouble and expense.

Research can help prevent disasters. During my days as waterfowl keeper, I was told
that the then-director had ordered the Trumpeter swans ( Cy gnus buccinator ) to be moved
in with the bison (Bison bison )- no pool, no barriers between the two species. I said I
though it was a rotten idea. Well, too bad; the director has spoken.

So I talked to people, and I looked in books, and I quoted to the director, chapter and verse,
why the venture would probably be a dismal failure. The plan was scuttled.

442

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Mv Landscape

Architect. Continued

Can you imagine the dialogue had I not armed myself with facts?

"You can’t put the Trumpeter swans in with the bison."

"Why not?"

"It won't work."

"How do you know? Have you ever worked with the bison?"

"No, but..."

"Have you talked to anyone who has worked bison?"

"Well, no..."

"Have you read up on bison?"

"No..."

"Then what gives you the idea that you can't put the swans with the bison?"

"You can't! It won’t work!"

I have no case. I forgot that an assumption is not the same as a fact; an opinion is not the
same as a fact; a prediction is not the same as a fact. So if I can't support my
recommendations with facts, I have no right to go about later, beating my breast and
proclaiming, "They never listen to me!" No wonder "they" don't.

As it happened, the director had not ordered such a move. He had said, "Why can't we put
the Trumpeter swans in with the bison?" He asked for information, and his question
came to me as an edict. The moral is: Be sure that what you're hearing is what was
actually said; be sure that what others hear from you is what was actually said.

It's useful to document what's said. Do not rely on your memory. Even if your memory
is photographic your word won't have as much credibility with others as will written proof
of what went on.

So take notes. After meetings, if nobody gives you a written record, send a memo that
outlines the results to the concerned authority figures. Include a note that this is your
understanding of what went on; request correction if your memory is incorrect (even
though you "know" you’re 100% accurate, and request a return of the initial memo if the
person(s) addressed agree(s) with your outline. I don't guarantee that you will have
occasion to bless your foresight, but the probability exceeds 99% that you will.

Back to research for a moment. Here is a dangerous piece of knowledge: For any point of
view with any relationship to reality (and for some with no relationship to reality), you
can fine some support, somewhere in the available literature.

Why is that knowledge dangerous? Because, by and large, people have an absurdly high
respect for the printed word. A supervisor actually said to me once, "How dare your
correct So-and-so? After all, he's written books, and you haven't."

Well, pardon me for breathing.

Do you get it? In that supervisor's mind, So-and-so’s having published books
automatically made So-and-so an expert in all fields- and my having published only a
few lousy articles made me a non-expert in anything.

443

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Mv Landscape

Architect. Continued

So there is this superstitious awe a lot of folks have for the printed word: If it’s between
book or magazine cover, it must be gospel! (How many of you have had someone quote
The National Inquirer , or one of its ilk, as a source authority?)

It's tempting to use that knowledge unfairly. What the hell-go ahead. In moderation.
And, when someone tries to bully you with the same tactics, remember the converse:

DON’T BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU READ.

Even if someone can quote 20 authorities, and you can quote 20 others with opposing
opinions, it's just possible that the animals in question haven't read any of those books,
and therefore don't know what they're "supposed" to do, and will go and do something
else.

If this leaves you in a morass of uncertainty, good. Uncertainty is good for the human
soul. It creates room to be flexible. It's important to be able to bend sometimes, and not
have to have everything your own way. I recommend that you save your big guns for the
big stuff, and give in graciously on the rest.

What's big stuff? My working definition is what affects the lives or the well-being of the
animals, the staff, the public, or any combination of the three— the greater the impact, the
bigger the stuff. So a feature that allows a keeper to work safely is big stuff. A feature
that's pretty, but has no other value, no matter how authentic it is (and don't confuse
authenticity with artistic merit), is not big stuff.

Now, somebody may decide an idea’s "Big stuff because that idea has become as dear as
a newborn babe to that person's heart. It is beautiful. It is adorable. It is the best idea in
the history of the universe. Said planner will start repeating the cute phrases discussed
earlier, or others like them. Hearing them should strike terror into your heart; for the
planner has developed the dreaded Blind Spot (BS for short). She actually becomes
incapable of perceiving any fault in the favored notion. Throw cold water on that person,
quickly, before the symptoms become terminal.

Blind spots also result from what could be called "already-always" vision: What we
already know and what we've always done, shape our vision and limit what we let
ourselves notice. Such vision calls forth feasibility, but leaves no room for correcting old
errors, much less getting really creative.

Our monkey island hideouts used to be cleaned daily, the detritus hosed into the moat,
which was drained and cleaned weekly. After renovation, the moat was to be drained
annually for cleaning. But nobody thought to link that with the need for drains in the
hideouts. Fortunately in this case, a sump pump provided a fairly reasonably priced
solution. We can't count on always being so lucky.

Blind spots of the former sort showed up in our Nocturnal House whose interior might
have been designed under the unexamined assumption that the species list would never
change. The floors have lovely, expensive, built-in feeding stations that hold custom-
built food pans, of a number and of sizes exactly calculated for our species list then.

But these lovely, expensive stations have no drains. Standing water must be swept out
after the daily cleaning, a labor intensive process.

Later, of course, the species list changes. Jury-rigged feeding stations started showing
up, while the lovely, expensive, custom-built stations started to lie idle, be diverted to other
uses, or just hidden.

444

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Mv Landscape

Architect. Continued

For this we had to give up such luxuries as graded floors in the service area, so that those
floors must also be swept free of water after cleaning.

So keep stuff as versatile as you can. Movable barriers, for instance, enable you to
separate parts of a larger social group.

I hope I've covered the most important things. As a summary, I've devised what I shall
call:

THE TEN(TATIVE) COMMANDMENTS OF ZOO PLANNING

1. Question "Authority".

2. Learn to hear alarm bells at certain words and phrases; take remedial action fast.

3. Do your research.

4. Learn to read blueprints and specifications.

5. Keep communications clear.

6. Don't believe everything you read.

7. Pick your priorities and align them.

8. Fight for the highest priorities; give in gracefully on the rest.

9. Beware of blind spots.

10. Keep stuff versatile, and yourself flexible.

Feel free to alter this list as you gain experience. You don't have to make the same
mistakes we did; you now have the opportunity to make brand new mistakes. And when
you do, pass on what you learn to others.

My thanks to Jones & Jones for the use of their slide files.

445

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the
Black & White Ruffed Lemur

( Varecia uariegata yanegata)

at the Metrozoo

«/

Rachel Rogers, Primate Keeper
Miami Metrozoo, Miami, FL

Introduction

Over a period of three breeding seasons (1985-1987) daily ad libitum observations were
conducted on a pair of Black & White Ruffed Lemur (' Varecia uariegata uariegata ) on an
island exhibit with a water moat surrounding its shores.

The female was offered conventional nestboxes above the ground, but chose to construct
nests of her own using materials to prepare the nest for the birth and rearing of her
infants. Nestbuilding was observed to be primarily a ground activity with rare
occurrences of aerial nest site construction or utilization over the three breeding seasons.

"Nest sites" were defined as sites with nest materials placed in a ground depression of the
female's own making; in a provided nestbox, within ground vegetation and terrestrial or
arboreal flat surfaces. "Parking sites" were defined as sites that did not contain nest
materials and where overnight depositing of infants did not occur. The types and number
of nestsites utilized by the female on a daily basis were variable, dependent on three
factors: the weather conditions, infant manipulation by staff, and normal activity levels.

The First Breeding Season

In September of 1984, the breeding pair (#M00235 1.0, #M00236 0.1) of Black and White
Ruffed lemurs were placed on Lemur Island for display. The pair was removed for about
one month for the construction of a proper night house facility with nestboxes above the
ground. The pair returned in the month of November, 1984. When first placed on the
island and upon their return, the pair was observed to scent mark the topmost part of all
branches of the two Indian Rosewood trees ( Dalbergia sissoo) . The male would use his
chest and facial areas to scent mark, whereas the female would occasionally scent mark
using her facial area or the ano-genital area while excreting urine. It was also observed
that the pair would scent mark the artificial rocks, artificial trees, night enclosures, and
the male took to scent marking keeper's boots.

About two weeks after they were placed on the island, I became curious about what had been
taking place in the trees, so I climbed up into the live trees to find a chevron marking on
the topmost parts of the branches of the Rosewood trees. It had apparently been made with
the grooming teeth on the lower mandible due to the uniform, parallel lines of the two
chevron marks. This mark was not observed to be made again unless a new branch was
placed in the exhibit by the area keepers.

At the end of January, 1985, the female appeared to be restless and some unusual activities
seemed to be taking place. The female began to show signs of aggression in the form of
charging, growling, barking, biting keepers on the boots, tail waving and initiating
"boxing" bouts with the male. "Boxing" was observed as an action where the two would
stand erect, batting each other with the hands, and intermittent attempts to bite were made.

446

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the Black and White Ruffed

Lemur at the Metrozoo. Continued

The male never displayed any aggression towards keepers, but would attempt to attack
other animals such as birds (and defend himself against his mate). The female was also
noticed manipulating vegetation on the island.

Since this was my first experience with ruffed lemurs, this behavior, for a primate, was
foreign to me. I was permitted to confer with primate keepers from the San Diego Zoo
where the two animals had been born. As I began to explain the behaviors I had observed to
Jane Jacobsen, she told me some of the behaviors were reproductive behavior, but others

days

1985

FEB

4

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

0000000 O O OO 0 . .

Estrus cycle

JUN

★

birth

1986

1

9 10 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

JAN

FEB

•

0O°OO c

Estrus cycle

MAY

birth

1987

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 30

JAN

® Jk • E] O 00 AO O Q O O • • •

Estrus cycle

APR

★

birth

Leqend

CU 3 observed copulation • * predicted birth date (May 9)

^ = suspected copulation
• = closed vaginal orifice

O = open vaginal orifice / pink visible / swollen sexual skin

Figure 1: The above chart is a summary of cycle charts kept on ruffed
lemur female #M00236 on Lemur Island at Metrozoo. A daily notation of
the appearance of sexual skin was made. A gestation of 104 days was
counted from the middle of the total days she appeared to be 'open' to
calculate the day of birth.

447

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the Black and White Ruffed

Lemur at the Metrozoo. Continued

were foreign to her also. Jane had told me her experiences with nesting behaviors
included observing the females within hours of parturition taking food into their
nestboxes, rearranging the piece of astro-turf offered as nest material, walking around
their cage with their tails in their mouth and with infants in their mouth. No other
behaviors were exhibited prior to two days before parturition. Ms. Jacobsen explained the
method of birth calculation by maintaining cycle charts. By slightly altering the use of
the chart to include behaviors and the number of days copulation was observed, I was able
to calculate gestation to the day of birth on two occasions and was off one day on one
occasion (See Figure 1). During the female's estrus cycle, it was commonly observed that
the pair copulated more than one day and the male's behavior began to change once the
female's sexual swellings began to subside. The male was observed to abruptly cease a
copulation prior to thrusting, flick his tail rapidly, then curl it over his back, to end laying
sternally or laterally with his tail curled around him. While doing this, he vocalized in
an excited frenzy similar to his usual pre and post copulatory vocalizations, but they were
more exaggerated. This behavior may have occurred due to the post estrus closing of the
vaginal opening causing intromission to be very difficult (Foerg, 1982).

Ruffed Lemur Management Philosophies at Metrozoo

There was some discussion about the proper management techniques to be used for the
first birth of ruffed lemurs at our zoo. Upon consulting with other zoological facilities,
there was a split consensus whether to hand-rear infants or allow mother rearing. If left
on the island, they could be prey to raccoons or snakes which had been seen on the island,
and the infants would be at the mercy of the weather which could possibly cause a
detrimental fluctuation in body temperature. A series of meetings followed with
discussions between our staff veterinarian, Dr. Scott Citino, and our curatorial staff, Bill
Zeigler, General Curator and Rick Barongi, Curator of Mammals. We were anxious to
see if the female could rear her young in a naturalistic setting. Dr. Citino, experienced at
hand-rearing infant Varecia, and the zoo's curators were the team that determined the
direction of the management of our first litter of ruffed lemurs.

Close observations by the relief keepers and myself were responsible for a well
coordinated effort. Dr. Citino was concerned about keeping track of the weight gains the
infants were making, so he implemented a weighing schedule. He also wanted to
maintain a record of the body temperature of the infants, since they were in a natural
environment as opposed to rearing in artificial heat of incubators or heating pads.
Weights and temperatures were taken the first two days, then an average of three days
until around the age of 60 days ( See Table 2 and 3).

Three of the five young born on lemur island were under minimum weight and too
hypothermic to be considered for mother rearing according to the San Diego Zoo's method
for selecting hand-reared neonates (Meier, Willis, 1984) (Table 4). One of the neonates
born in 1986, #M00594 1.0, exceeded San Diego Zoo's "highest growth rate" of hand-reared
(Figure 5) ruffed lemurs and two born in 1985, #M00420 0.1 and #M00421 0.1, were
slightly lower than the "highest growth rate" for hand-reared ruffed lemurs at 30 days. I
feel this is a significant difference due to the Metrozoo ruffed lemurs being mother-reared
in a naturalistic environment with no artificial regulation of body temperature and no
supplemental feedings to the neonates. The female was placed on a 1/2 multivitamin and
iron tablet once daily (2 weeks prior to birth) and food intake was monitored closely. The
black and white ruffed lemur diet at Metrozoo consists of : 10 pieces Hi-protein® primate
chow, 1/2 orange and spinach per adult lemur twice daily. During the heat of the summer
and at weaning of infant lemurs, we offered Gatorade® to prevent dehydration. At
weaning, the female was taken off her vitamin supplement and the monkey chow was
soaked in order to make it more appealing to the youngsters.

448

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the Black and White Ruffed

Lemur at the Metrozoo. Continued

RACHEL’S LEMUR

STATISTICS

VARECIA

VARIEGATA VARIEGATA

ANIMAL

ID 0MOO419 1.0

DATE OF

BIRTH JUNE 4,85

DATE

WEIGHT-GRAM

TEMP-F

TENP-C

DAYS OLD

6-4-85

95.0

98.1

36.7

1

6-5-85

98.1

97.8

36.6

2

6-7-85

116.6

98.1

36.7

4

6-10-85

148.2

99.4

37.4

7

6-13-85

173.6

97.4

36.3

10

6-17-85

205.5

98.6

37.0

14

6-20-85

237.5

98.4

36.9

17

6-27-85

295.0

100.6

38.1

24

7-5-85

367.5

99.2

37.3

32

7-11-85

420.0

98.8

37.1

38

7-17-85

515.0

NO TEMP

44

8-10-85

1900.0

100.4

38.0

66

VARECIA

VARIEGATA VARIEGATA

AN IMAL

ID 0MOO42O 0.1

DATE OF

BIRTH JUNE 4,85

DATE

WEIGHT-GRAM

TEMP-F

TEMP-C

DAYS OLD

6-4-85

75.3

98.1

36.7

1

6-5-85

79.3

98.5

36.9

2

6-7-85

96.4

98

36.7

4

6-10-85

123.7

99.4

37.4

7

6-13-85

147.5

97.6

36.4

10

6-17-85

178.1

97.6

36.4

14

6-20-85

204.4

98.6

37.0

17

6-27-85

272.0

101.4

38.6

24

7-5-85

327.2

100

37.8

32

7-11-85

385.0

100

37.8

38

7-17-85

485.0

NO TEMP

44

8-10-85

2300.0

98.9

37.2

66

VARECIA

VARIEGATA VARIEGATA

ANIMAL

ID 0MOO421 0.1

(FUNNEL CHEST-

-PECTUS EXCAVATUM)

DATE OF

BIRTH DUNE 4,85

DATE

WEIGHT-GRAM

TEMP-F

TEMP-C

DAYS OLD

6-4-85

77.4

97.5

36.4

1

6-5-85

81.1

97.5

36.4

2

6-7-85

91.1

98.1

36.7

4

6-10-85

117.3

99.4

37.4

7

6-13-85

139.7

97.2

36.2

10

6-17-85

172.1

98.4

36.9

14

6-20-85

207.3

99.8

37.7

17

6-27-85

267.0

100

37.8

24

7-5-85

333.0

99.6

37.6

32

7-11-85

365.0

100

37.8

38

7-17-85

472.0

NO TEMP

44

8-10-85

1820.0

100.7

38.2

66

Table 2: The above table represents the weight gains and temperature
fluctuations of the first litter of black and white ruffed lemurs on
Metrozoo’s Lemur Island.

449

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the Black and White Ruffed

Lemur at the Metrozoo. Continued

VARECIA

VARIEGATA VARIEGATA

ANIMAL

ID 0MOO593 1.0

(EYES)

DATE OF

BIRTH MAY 10,86

DATE

WEIGHT-GRAM

TEMP-F

TEMP-C

DAYS OLD

3-10-86

89.1

95.8

35.4

1

5-12-86

98.8

96.4

35.8

3

5-14-86

115.0

98.0

36.7

5

5-16-86

130.0

98.0

36.7

7

5-19-86

159.0

97.4

36.3

10

5-20-86

178.0

99.2

37.3

11

5-23-86

205.0

99.2

37.3

14

5-27-86

269.4

99.6

37.6

18

5-30-86

315.0

100.0

37.8

21

6-2-86

351.0

NO TEMP

24

6-4-86

339.0

NO TEMP

26

6-9-86

448.0

100.3

37.9

31

8-28-86

1730.0

100.4

38.0

111

VARECIA

VARIEGATA VARIEGATA

ANIMAL

ID # MOO 594 1.0

(WHITE TOP)

DATE OF

BIRTH MAY 10,86

DATE

WEIGHT-GRAM

TEMP-F

TEMP-C

DAYS OLD

5-10-86

79.0

95.4

35.2

1

5-12-86

84.0

96.4

35.8

3

5-14-86

103.0

97.0

36.1

5

5-16-86

120.0

96.4

35.8

7

5-19-86

145.0

98.2

36.8

10

5-20-86

167.0

98.9

37.2

11

5-23-86

190.0

101.5

38.6

14

5-27-86

249.0

100.2

37.9

18

5-30-86

280.0

100.0

37.8

21

6-2-86

316.0

NO TEMP

24

6-4-86

386.0

NO TEMP

26

6-9 -86

407.0

100.3

37.9

31

8-28-86

1810.0

99.7

37.6

111

Table 3: The above table represents the weight gains and temperature
fluctuations of the second litter of black and white ruffed lemurs on
Metrozoo’s Lemur Island.

Nesting Behaviors

Nesting behaviors manifested themselves about one month prior to onset of the male's
testicular cycle (Bogart, Cooper, Benirschke, 1977) (Foerg, 1982) for about 5 to 7 days in the
month of September (1986, 1987); then again at one month prior to parturition and became
more intense at about two days before parturition. This behavior continued until the
infants were about 60 days old. Our experience clearly shows nesting behaviors to be
associated with the onset of the breeding season, the final stages of pregnancy, birth and
rearing of ruffed lemur young.

Nesting Behaviors/Before Parturition

About 30 days prior to the onset of the male's testicular cycle, he was observed to become
large in appearance even though food intake had decreased. Male ruffed lemurs exhibit a
marked difference in the size of the testes which begin to increase in size at the end of
September, returning to original size by the end of February (Bogart, Cooper, Benirschke,
1977) (Figure 6). This enlargement of the testes is due to increased sperm production and

450

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the Black and White Ruffed

Lemur at the Metrozoo. Continued

* is a physical characteristic in male ruffed lemurs associated with the onset of the
breeding season. No particular part of the male's body, except for the testes, appeared to
enlarge unproportionately. In the "fatted male process" of the Squirrel monkey (Saimiri
sciureus) (DuMond, 1967) the upper torso of the male appears much larger in proportion to
the rest of the body prior to breeding season.

Guidelines for selecting neonatal lemurs for hand-raising

Neonatal factors

1) Birth weight less than 85 grams

A single healthy neonate weighing 80-85 grams may be provisionally
left with the dam if she shows good maternal behavior.

2) Failure to gain weight

Most maternally reared ruffed lemurs gain approximately half their
body weight or more in one week.

3) Body temperature below approximately 97°F (normal 98.6°F)

Female ruffed lemurs tend to abandon hypothermic neonates. An
otherwise healthy neonate abandoned because of hypothermia may be
rewarmed, given about 3 ml oral glucose/electrolyte solution 3 , and
be reintroduced successfully to a maternally competent dam.

4) Dehydration, weakness, or poor vitality

5) Poor physical condition, trauma, abnormal umbilicus

Maternal factors
1) Maternal abuse or trauma

Prior good maternal behavior does not assure subsequent good mater-
nal behavior and vice versa; although some ruffed lemurs are
frequently poor mothers. 2) Maternal neglect/disinterest

3) Prior lactation problems - especially with large litter size or neonatal
weakness and lack of weight gain

4) Large litter size

With more than two neonates, it may be necessary to remove the smaller
individuals. Triplets may be left with the dam if they are similar
in size, have a high birth weight, and have good vitality. The dam
must be in excellent condition to maintain triplets.

Table 4: The above is taken from Meier, Willis, 1984. These are the
guidelines used to select animals for hand-rearing at the San Diego Zoo.

451

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the Black and White Ruffed

Lemur at the Metrozoo. Continued

Figure 5: The above graph is taken from Meier, Willis, 1984 and represents
the highest, mean, and lowest weight gains for black and white ruffed
lemurs pulled for hand-rearing at the San Diego Zoo.

452

The Nestbuildinff Behavior of the Black and White Ruffed

Lemur at the Metrozoo. Continued

Figure 6: The above is taken from Bogart, Cooper, Benirschke, 1977. This
graph represents the size of the left testi of three male black and white
ruffed lemurs. The size of the testes increases as the breeding season
approaches reaching a maximum about one month before

At this point, the female ruffed lemur would exhibit "detached nesting behaviors". By
detached, I mean to say that she would cut nest materials and investigate nestsites, the
nestboxes and the area of the planter atop their nighthouse facility. Following this, she
would fail to place the nest materials into her investigated nestsites. Nest materials were
typical in the second and third breeding seasons (1986, 1987) as being Rosewood branch
ends with leaves ranging from ,6cm to 1.0cm in diameter and ranging from 16.4cm to
25.0cm in length. A typical nest size was about 35.8cm wide, 30.7cm high and 46.1cm
deep. The first breeding season (1985), I observed the female to labor over the cutting of a
branch 15.0cm in diameter and 26.0cm in length. I watched as she made sawing motions
using the teeth immediately behind her canines. She worked on the branch for hours,
finally cutting it by the next day. As I watched, the female grasped the branch with her
mouth and after seven attempts to enter her nestbox, she was finally successful. After
doing this, she spent another 20 minutes attempting to manipulate it to the floor of the
nestbox. She finally ended up with the branch twisted in the nestbox. The female
attempted to manipulate the branch two consecutive days before abandoning the branch
and nestbox. This strong effort on her part seemed to be driven by instinct, but not
executed with experience.

The next interval of nesting behaviors usually began an average of 30 days prior to
parturition The female would be seen collecting nest materials between 0700 and 1000
hours and again at 1500 to 1700 hours. Usually the nest materials cut in the morning were
placed in the nestsite by afternoon and the nest materials cut in the evening were placed
in the nestsite in the morning.

During the two days prior to parturition, we experienced the most intense nest collection
activities, the average nest materials cut each day would increase to ten branches in the

453

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the Black and White Ruffed

Lemur at the Metrozoo. Continued

morning and ten branches in the afternoon, for a total of 20 each day. In the breeding
season of 1987, the female exhibited the most intense nesting behavior to date by filling her
birth site (NB-c) (Figure 7) 4.72cm deep with nest materials the day before parturition.

Nesting Behavior/After Parturition

Historically, the female ruffed lemur on lemur island gave birth in terrestrial nestsites
two consecutive years (1985, 1986) and once in a nestbox above the ground (1987). The
summer of 1986, all the Wedelia ( Wedelia trilobata ). a common ground cover at Metrozoo,
had been removed from the base of PG#5, #6. By the next breeding season, the vegetation
was still very sparse, not having grown to its original density. I feel this made the female
very uneasy about giving birth on the ground. The 1987 birth took place in NB-c, 30 April,
1987, at about 1730 hours. Earlier that day, between 1115 and 1130 hours, the female was
observed, manipulating her tail by rubbing it across her back while grasping the end in
one hand. Then, grasping a piece of nest material in the same fashion, the female rubbed
her facial area across the branch. Following the scent marking, she then pulled it across
her back and repeated this sequence again.

At 1600 hours, I found the first infant (#M00768 0.1) in NB-c, dry with a severed
umbilicus. The female seemed unusually restless. I began to feel something was wrong,
so I left to find the supervisor. When we returned, we found another infant (#M00769 0.1)
had been born. We watched as she ate the embryonic sac. The night keeper checked the
female at 2300 hours to find that the second infant, #M00769 0.1, was dead and had to be
removed. By the next morning, the female had dug deeper into PG#5 and relocated her
live infant into the ground nest. The stillborn infant (#M00769) had a congenital defect
of the cranium where the frontal portion of the skullar calvarium was absent, causing the
brain to be exposed subcutaneously. Five days following the birth, the second infant,
#M 00768 0.1, had to be pulled for hand-rearing since it had failed to gain weight. At eight
days, the pulled infant died in our intensive care facility. Post necropsy, it was found that
the gall bladder and pancreas were not completely developed, causing the infant to be
incapable of digesting its food.

After the second infant was pulled, the female would remain in the nest as if she still had
an infant to nurse. I attempted to feed her but she refused food, which did not alarm me too
much since this seems to be normal from past experiences. The male also refused food
which was normally observed in the early days after birth. I then approached the female
once again touching her. This female, who was normally aggressive, never allowed
herself to be touched; now she was allowing me to rub her back! This was alarming to me
and I feared she would become depressed. The next day, she seemed a bit depressed and
was remaining in the birth nest. By the third day, she seemed improved and began to eat a
little. Oddly enough, even in the absence of an infant the female was observed to cut nest
materials and place them in the birth nest. Up to 17 days following the death of her infant,
the female exhibited nesting behaviors. I found nest materials cut and left on the ground,
with a few placed in the birth nest.

Post partum, it was commonly observed that the female would move her infants an
average of two to three times daily. On days which the infants were weighed, she would
move them as many as four times in the day. The female lemur relocated the infants by
picking them up in her mouth abdominally. This is the reverse method typical of felids
when transporting young. Days after parturition, we observed the female walking
around her exhibit with infants in her mouth, returning them to their original site without
relocating them. For several days post partum, it was common to observe the female
remain in her nest for long periods of time, days after parturition, due to constant nursing
of young. We suspect she would nurse the infants an average of once an hour the first
week. As she nursed the infants less often, she became more visible. At times, the young
were placed in the nest and nest materials were placed on top of them. The male was
observed to stay near the nest while the infants or female occupied the nest. The male was
also observed to chase the female into the nest for about five to seven days post partum.

454

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the Black and White Ruffed

Lemur at the Metrozoo. Continued

After chasing the female into the nest, the male would remain outside the entrance of the
nest. If the infants many any sounds at all, the male would race over and vocalize to the
infants in the nest. During periods of heavy rains, the female placed her infants in the
provided nestboxes until the rain subsided.

Nesting Behavior/Parking"

"Parking" (Periera, Kepler, Simons, 1987) (MacDonald, 1985) in primate species is
similar to antelope mothers "tucking" their young in the brush keeping them safe from
predators while the mother forages. Once the young are strong and agile enough to keep
up with the herd, they no longer "tuck". At 10 to 14 days following parturition, the female
began parking her infants in terrestrial sites which offered a moderate amount of cover
for the infants. After 14 days, parking became more of an arboreal activity. Arboreal
parking of ruffed lemur young has been observed in semi-freeranging ruffed lemur at
the Duke University Primate Center in Durham, NC (Periera, Kepler, Simons, 1987). At
this time, the sites she chose were the nestboxes (NB-b, c) and the flat area of the planter
above their nighthouse facility. During the day, she would leave the infants undisturbed
if asleep in a terrestrial nest. I believe she chose the arboreal parking sites due to the
increased agility and activity of her infants. It was clear that the female became nervous
as the infants made numerous attempts at leaving the ground nests to explore their
island.

While in the process of moving the infants, the female would also get nervous if, after
picking one up, the other would start moving about. The male would be observed staying
near the remaining infant until the female returned. In the evening, the female would
retire the infants to ground nestsites for sleeping.

At about 18 to 25 days, the female would spend less time in the nest and extend the parking
time for infants during the day. In 1986, at 20 days postpartum, the female was observed
carrying her infants into a Rosewood tree with the male. They both reclined on either side
of the infants. It seemed clear that the infants were not adept at climbing as they
cautiously moved across the branch. The pair stayed with the infants for about 20
minutes; then the female moved the infants one at a time back to their ground nest.

It was common to see the female spend her time eating, resting, or simply away from the
infants while they were parked. This would seem comparable to a human infant being
placed in a crib while mother is free to do other tasks.

Discussion

I believe from the observations at the Miami Metrozoo, that reproductive ruffed lemurs
require more choices of possible nestsites than are normally offered in most captive
situations. I feel the offering of numerous possible nesting and parking sites at ground
level and above the ground may prove to relieve stress in captive parenting of ruffed
lemur young. This is an important enhancement to the rearing of well adjusted young.

From the three years of observations, we have begun to see a pattern of events in the
reproductive behavior in our breeding pair of ruffed lemurs. They have exhibited
behaviors marking the onset of the male’s testicular cycle, which produced nesting
behavior, and behaviors indicating the end of gestation which produced nesting
behaviors.

The onset of the male's testicular cycle was indicated in the male by a larger appearance,
mild to moderate aggression towards the female, and a reduction in appetite. The female
would not change in appearance, but prior to the onset of the testicular cycle, would produce
detached nesting behavior, become hyperactive, and exhibit a reduction in appetite.

455

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the Black and White Ruffed

Lemur at the Metrozoo. Continued

Black & White Ruffed Lemur Exhibit #6
Metrozoo , Miami, Florida

Year:

#Nestsite$:

5 .

Figure 7: The above drawing depicts the Lemur Island where #M00235 1.0
and #M00236 0.1 Black and White ruffed lemurs parented two litters of
offspring. The perimeter of the island is 54.83 m., the outer perimeter of
the moat is 101.67 m., and the distance from the shore to the moat wall is
6.09 m. Indian Rosewood trees are located where the asterisk (*) is on the
north and south ends of the island. BIRTH SITES; 1985 - PG#6, 1986 -
PG#5, 1987 ■ NB-c (DNS). THE NUMBER OF NESTS: 1985 - 3 nests, 1986 - 4
nests, 1987 - 6 nests. The Nighthouse located on the east side of the island
has one cage (14.17cm wide x 28.34 cm long x 33.07 cm high) and two
nestboxes (7.08 cm wide x 9.44 cm long x 11.02 cm high).

During the gestation at about one month prior to parturition, the female would exhibit
regular nesting behavior. This behavior would intensify at two days prior to birth. Nest
material collection would become very exaggerated in comparison to what was observed
prior to that time.

The nesting behavior of the black and white lemur is not understood in the wild (Simons,

1986) due to the lack of intensive study of this species. Ground nesting and parking have
many implications to be explored in captivity (Simons, 1986) (Periera, Kepler, Simons,

1987) to better observe and care for captive ruffed lemurs.

We can ultimately learn more from observing mother-reared lemurs which will enrich
the captive management of these endangered prosimians. Close observations by keepers
and team work with zoo management can make mother rearing a feasible possibility.

A lot of emphasis is placed on the genetic diversity of captive bred specimens. I think it is
also important to preserve the naturally stimulated behavior of a species by enriching
their environment. By failing to do so, we could theoretically be suppressing the full
potential behaviors of a captive specimen. As zoos strive to represent animals in

456

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the Black and White Ruffed

Lemur at the Metrozoo. Continued

naturalistic settings, those that are successful can also create an atmosphere which allows
animals to represent their own intrinsic value through natural behavior.

Acknowledgments

I would like to thank the following people who contributed in order to make this work
possible:

Dr. Scott Citino, DVM, staff veterinarian of Metrozoo, for his time and the
information he gave me about Varecia varit

Sally Liddell for her support and typing skills.

Susan Balkaney for the use of her video camera.

The keepers who continued observations on my days off: Bill Vinson, Conrad
Schmitt and Kurt Mannchen.

The management of Metrozoo for their approval of time for observations.

Bibliography

Bogart, M.H., Cooper, R.W., Benirschke, K, 1977. "Reproductive Studies of Black and
White Ruffed Lemurs". International Zoo Yearbook . Vol. 17, pp. 177-182.

(Figure #6 of this paper).

Dumond, F.V. and Hutchinson, T.C., 1967. "Squirrel Monkey Reproduction. The Fatted
Male Phenomenon and Seasonal Spermatogenesis", Science . Vol. 158
pp.106701070.

Foerg, R., 1982. "Reproductive Behavior in Varecia variegata ' . Folia Primitologica.

38, pp. 108-121.

MacDonald, Dr. D., Editor, 1985. All the World's Animals. PRIMATES . Torstar Books,
Inc., New York, NY, pp.28,38,41,42.

Meier, J.E., DVM, Willis, M.S., 1984. "Techniques for Hand-rearing Neonatal

Ruffed Lemurs Varecia variegata variegata and Varecia variegata rubra and a
Comparison of Hand-raised and Maternally Raised Animals".

Journal of Zoo Animal Medicine . Vol. 15, pp. 24-31 (Table #4, Figure #5 of this
paper.

Periera, M.E., Kepler, A., Simons, E.L., 1987. "Tactics of Care for Young Infants by
Forest-Living Ruffed Lemurs ( Varecia variegata variegata ) : Ground Nests and
’Parking'". American Journal of Primatologv. Vol. 13, No. 2, pp. unk.

(currently in publication).

Simons, E.L., April 1986. "Lemurs in a Natural Habitat in North Carolina: A Crucial
Step in Reintroduction to the Wild", IUCN/SSC Primate Conservation Newsletter .
No. 7, pg. 62.

457

Spectacled Bear Management
at the Lincoln Park Zoo

By

Diane Weinhardt, Keeper
Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago, IL

The spectacled bear ( Tremarctos ornatus ) is a small bear from South America. It was
described by French biologist F. Cuvier in 1825. The bears' common name refers to the
markings around the face giving it a "speckled" look. Presently it is found in the
Andean countries of Venezuela, Ecuador, Columbia, Peru and Bolivia.

This species of bear is the only one found in South America. Mostly black in color, they
have a body length of 120-180cm and weigh around 140kg with females about two-thirds
the size at 60-62kg (Walker, 1983).

The spectacled bear has been exhibited at Lincoln Park for almost twenty years. Our
breeding program started out with a young pair that bred in 1973 with the first successful
birth occurring in 1974. This particular bear continued to successfully produce nine cubs
until the female's death in 1981. By this time we had already received a second female
from Madison, WI, that was also being bred by our male.

The Lincoln Park Zoo currently houses 3.5 spectacled bears and owns 6.6 on breeding
situations at other institutions. In the last twenty years we have had 6.6.4 born. In 1986,
three of these births were first, second and third generations.

In addition to our breeding successes, LPZ has been in the forefront of captive behavioral
research on spectacled bears. In 1987 we received an Institute of Museum Services grant
to study spectacled bear vocalization. A Dr. Scholl grant in 1986 and 1987 allowed us to
study mother/infant relationships in the dens and exhibit usage by the bears. The
spectacled bear studbook has been maintained at Lincoln Park Zoo since 1984. In
addition, a bibliography containing all spectacled bear citations was published by
Weinhardt and Jorgenson in 1986. In 1987, Lincoln Park Zoo was recognized for its
contributions in spectacled bear management with the awarding of the Significant
Achievement Award by the American Association of Zoological Parks and Aquariums
(AAZPA).

Exhibit

Prior to 1980, our bears were exhibited in "typical" barred bear cages. In 1982 an 11.7
million dollar Large Mammal Complex was opened. In this area three large naturalistic
exhibits were constructed for the spectacled bears. These exhibits included pools, grass
areas, trees and bushes (which, being bears, they immediately ripped up) and rock cliffs
for climbing. Inside there are seven dens with radiated floor coil heat, shelves and
nestboxes.

Through a study done in 1986 all outside space in the bear yards are utilized. This past
year we tried something different in the outside exhibit. We planted "dead" trees. (This
is not a typo.) We planted them in concrete three feet deep, arranged the canopy of the trees
at different heights so the bears could climb from limb to limb. The bears really utilize it
well and the public enjoys watching them climb.

Daily Maintenance

From talking to other zoo people we are finding our situation to be unique. Our Bear Line
is a daily rim by itself. We are in there all day cleaning. (Polar Bears and three pair of

458

Spectacled Bear Management at Lincoln Park Zoo. Continued

maned wolves are also housed here.) I mention this because our bears are very at ease
around us, which makes our "denning" and daily management situations a little easier,
especially when you have three females to juggle at cubbing time.

Diet

The present diet we feed our bears is:

1 1/2 pounds of dry omnivore diet (per bear)

3 apples
3 carrots

3 sweet potatoes

4 bananas

1 orange

2 hard boiled eggs
1/2 head lettuce

In season we might feed these:

Melons, nectarines, peaches, plums, corn, sugar cane, avocados,
berries and grapes.

Medical

We currently only knock our bears down when absolutely necessary. We worm them two
times per year.

Breeding

Our experiences have concluded sexual maturity begins around the ages of 3 1/2 years,
though in the literature it is recorded between the ages of 4 1/2 and 5 years old. Females
have cycle twice a year, once in June and then again in August. Estrous signs include
swelling of the vulva and an increase in the vocalization levels between male and
female. The estrous cycle has been estimated at 3-5 days, copulation occurring
frequently. Gestation lengths have ranged from 160-210 days, which gives light to the fact
delayed implantation occurs in this species. Most births occur in December and January.
The litter size ranges from one to three, two being the norm.

Denning and Birth

Our bears are kept in pairs all the time except during "denning". About a month before
her due date, we will separate her from the male and put her in a den that she's very
familiar with, for cubbing. I personally feel that the female must be very "comfortable"
in her surroundings. Make sure the den you put her in is one she is familiar with-this
isn't the time to move her into a place she has never or rarely been in. This is also not the
time to introduce new keepers or have unfamiliar keepers in this area. There are two
people who work bears here. We have completely opposite schedules, and for the first two
months after birth we try to have one of us there. Some signs to watch for in the female to
indicate pregnancy are: 1) a slow decrease in her appetite, 2) a decrease in tolerance of the
male, 3) low activity level, 4) best building, and 5) swollen vulva.

At Lincoln Park Zoo two different denning situations are used. One is to put the female in
a familiar den away from as many disturbances as possible with a bale or two of straw
and access to water. And leave her there.. .sounds too simple, I know, but it has worked
for us.

Then we have the Neiman-Marcus version of our denning situation. The den box
designs we used originated from the Basel Zoo in Switzerland. In the past couple of years
we have modified it to include audio and video hook-ups. We then use this set up to

459

Spectacled Bear Management at Lincoln Park Zoo. Continued

observe mother and cub from the keeper kitchen without disturbing them. This also
allows us to see things that you might not see, such as the bear giving birth. Other
modifications we have made were ventilation and drainage holes, and a light source
(red) mounted to the top of the box for better viewing and taping. We use straw in the box
also.

The camera was also used in the den situation-we set it up in the keeper hallway. The
problem with this was if the bear tried hard enough, she could knock it over, reaching with
her paw.

Timelapse units are best for this situation; the camera should have a short, wide angled
lens. There should be two lights (one to use, the other as an alternate) on the box that can be
easily switched. Then the light can be switched without stress to the animal or keepers.
We learned this the hard way. We had a female that was being monitored in her nestbox
when the light went out. It was very difficult to get into the den area and change the bulb
without disturbing the female and endangering the cubs. It took us a couple of weeks to
find the right time to correct the problem and, consequently, considerable monitoring
time was lost.

From the monitoring system we have been able to tape and/or observe some of the
following: birth (in a sitting position), nursing positions and frequency, and the
development of the cubs. We also have noticed that the babies born and raised in the
nestbox are much more independent than those raised in our den situation. Dr. Scholl
studies were done this past summer and the data collected on tape during our baby boom of
'86. The results of this study will be included in the 1986 Spectacled Bear Studbook.

The diet for the "denned" female is omnivore, whole apples and carrots, fed when
needed. We also give her a large rawhide bone to keep her busy in the nest.

Postnatal

The female starts taking the baby out of the box or allowing it to roam on its own for brief
periods at about three months of age. Then it slowly progresses and at about the age of 5-6
months we set up the outside for "liberation" day. The outside area is thoroughly checked
for danger or escape areas for the cub, and the pool is dropped and filled with bales of straw
and logs so they can get out if they choose to or if they fall in. The first few days they are
outside under supervision of the bear keepers and then under the watchful eyes of our
docents.

The cub is sexed at the age of six months. This is usually when the female is comfortable
being separated from the cub. This is usually not too traumatic on the cub, mother or
keepers.. .well, the cub and mother anyway.

Handraising

In the twenty year history of the spectacled bear at Lincoln Park Zoo, we have only had to
hand-raise one bear. The mother died when the youngster was four months old. The cub
was put on a formula consisting of Carnation® milk, water, molasses, vipenta, cereal
and yogurt. Currently he is still in our collection and sired his first offspring in 1986.

To summarize, our success with spectacled bears can be attributed to several factors:

1. Consistent daily maintenance by a limited number of keepers.

2. Diet— variety and nutritionally sound.

3. Ample stimulus in outside yard to allow for development and expression of
natural behaviors.

4. Video and audio monitoring systems that allow keepers to monitor situations without

disturbing the animals.

I have spent the last five years working with the spectacled bears and the different projects
associated with them. It has taken a lot of hard work, time and energy, and I haven t
dreaded a minute of it.. .well, may be a few.

460

Kenya Diary

Part 3

By

Andy Lodge
Keeper , Columbus Zoo
Columbus , OH

On the Brink QfETrtmctiop; A Ngare Sergei Journal

May 25, 1986 - I had breakfast at the large waterhole this morning/
not as much wildlife as usual, only a few spoonbills and a Grant's zebra. The David
Craigs invited me to lunch today. I talked to David about our zoo's efforts on behalf of
Anna and the rhino reserve. I told him I planned to try to raise money for her and he
thought that was a great idea. The Craigs are truly interested in the work Anna is doing
to save the black rhinos.

This is Sunday so everyone is relaxing. In that spirit the Craigs took me on a leisurely
tour of the 26,000-acre expanse of Lewa Downs.

When we returned, the Craigs gave me a ham. I was very appreciative, but to be truthful it
didn't look like any ham I'd ever seen before. It was hairy and a strange color. I asked
Jilly if she could do something with it for me. I am awaiting the results with a mixture of
anxiety and curiosity.

There will be no bath tonight as the water is a dark brown color.

May 26 - Karl is going back to Switzerland Wednesday, so he and Anna are spending
the day together. Anna's Meru tracker and I did the morning rhino check. The rhinos
were well hidden today, so we did a lot of walking to find them. Solia, the most
aggressive of the females, gave us a minor scare. She suddenly bounded up from the tall
grass and started for us. Needless to say, we made a hasty retreat.

The ranch foreman is going on leave next week, so he have me a quick course on how to
run the electric generators. I feel good that I've been entrusted with the important task of
keeping the electricity working for the four hours a day we have it until he gets back.

There's a photo contest in London next month on endangered species. Anna asked me to
take photos of Sarnia, the baby rhino she is hand-raising, and enter them in the contest.
We went to the top of a hill and I took photographs of Sarnia against the red sunset. I
suppose I've got as good a chance as anyone. Maybe I'll win a trip to England - maybe
I'll win the Ohio Lottery too.

May 27 - This morning is off to a great start. I broke my glasses chasing a bat out of my
bedroom. I'm glad I brought my old spare pair.

Karl began his trip to Switzerland this morning. Anna asked me to ride into Nanyuki
with them, where Karl has to catch his plane to Nairobi. She wanted me along because she
was picking up the payroll for the Employees on the reserve. She said she would feel better
if I were along because she would have a good deal of money.

Going to Nanyuki gave me some time to go to the bank and do some shopping for food for
the next couple of weeks. We got back late, so I fixed dinner, read and went to bed early.

461

Kenya Diarv . Continued

May 28 - Anna and I went horseback riding this morning at dawn. Riding here is very
unique as we rode past herds of zebra, gazelles and giraffe. What a sight to see! Some of
nature's most beautiful creatures silhouetted against the landscape by the rays of the
morning sun.

On the way back we came to a straight path that allowed us to let the animals beneath us
reach full gallop. We ran them right to the stables. Anna's horse is younger and faster,
but mine, being strong of heart, kept pace.

When we dismounted we heard great news over the radio. They called Anna and told her
that Shaba, the pregnant female rhino, had her calf. We took off in the Rover as fast as we
could negotiate the roads. What a beautiful sight, seeing a newborn calf and her mother
together in the wild, completely free. Both mother and baby appear to be very healthy. We
will be keeping a close eye on them for several days. Everyone on the reserve is really
happy. They’re all like proud parents. What great timing. It's something I may never
get to see again. I won't ever forget it.

May 29 - Anna and I moved the horses to the other side of the reserve this morning as it is
better grazing for them over there. There hasn't been any rain for a while, and the fields
and trees have turned brown since I've been here. We are badly in need of rain.

Someone stole some goats last night. Everyone is out looking for the goat rustlers.

I checked on the baby this morning. It seems to be doing fine. There are trackers
watching it all the time through these first few critical days. I think its going to make it.

May 30 - More problems hit the ranch today. Lions came in last night and killed two of
the cattle. All the hands are out looking for them. Everyone has been warned to be
careful.

Mother and baby rhino still look good. I think they're going to be fine.

May 31 - The lion problem is bigger than we first thought. An entire pride, nine to ten,
were here and killed nine cattle and injured five. They are going to try to run them off
with planes tonight.

I spent most of the day with Shaba and her calf who has been named Jupiter. For the rest of
my time here I'll concentrate primarily on these two.

June 1 - Today marks the halfway point in my study. I've got a routine that I follow each
day. First thing in the morning I go out and observe Shaba and Jupiter. In the afternoon,
if they're sleeping, I watch the social behavior of the three that are usually together - Godot,
Kelele and Rogani. The rest of the rhinos are, as is the norm with black rhinos, loners.

Today I saw the first male greater kudu I've seen since I came here. They are seldom
seen on the reserve as there are very few of them at this time of year. For some reason the
males do not usually survive the dry season.

June 2 - I observed Jupiter all morning. He’s a feisty little guy and very active. I can see
a great deal of his father, Godot, in him. Godot has killed two other males, and lets no
other male of breeding age around the females. I hope his offspring are not as aggressive
or Anna could have some real problems down the line.

I introduced Anna to Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Ricky Scaggs tonight. I
brought some of my cassette tapes with me, and played them for her. She had never heard
of any of them. She sat and listened patiently, but really never said whether or not she
liked them.

462

Kenya Diary . Continued

June 3 - I received a message from Nairobi that Park East needed to talk to me. Since
there’s no phone, I had to wait for the weekly supply run to Nanyuki. Jilly and I loaded up
the old Rover truck with returnable bottles and with three farm hands went to do the
shopping. Shopping in a small African village is a different experience. It certainly
isn't like going to your neighborhood super market. It took us three hours and about eight
different kinds of stores. We loaded everything in the Rover, I made my phone call to
Nairobi, and then we returned to the ranch. I found a fairly recent Time magazine in
town, so tonight I'm going to catch up on what's been happening in the world for the last
three weeks.

Anna came over and said Sarnia, her baby rhino, is off its feed and acting sluggish. I
asked if she had changed its diet in any way and she said she had changed its milk
formula. I told her that could be part of the problem. We will watch its food intake, and if
there is no improvement by tomorrow, we may have cause for concern.

To Be Continued

(Note: Andy is available to give talks and a slide presentation on the Ngare Sergoi Rhino
Project. If you are interested in having Andy speak to your Chapter or group you may
contact him at (614) 766-3413).

The International Center
for the Preservation of Wild Animals

By

John Becker

International Center for the Preservation of Wild Animals, Inc.

and

Carl Gyarmaty, Herbivore/ Carnivore Keeper
Columbus Zoo, Columbus, OH

In recent years, many zoos, aquariums, wildlife parks, and private facilities have
achieved fantastic successes in such conservation activities as rare species
propagation, research, and public education. As keepers, we have been fortunate to be
active participants in these endeavors. However, many of us have also become aware
of one very disturbing fact: many potentially successful breeding programs are stifled
or repressed due to a lack of sufficient space.

This is in no way intended to belittle our institutions or their conservation efforts,
Most places have done an outstanding job with the land they have available. However,
when you consider that you can fit all the land currently available to U.S. zoos in the
suburb of Brooklyn, the need for more land becomes immediately apparent.

In addition to putting a stranglehold on many breeding programs, land shortage is
causing other complications, such as research restrictions and the problem of surplus
animals. As many of us are acutely aware, some endangered and threatened animals
(most of the big cat species are classic examples) are deliberately not being bred
because there is no place to house the offspring, either in this country or abroad.

Recognizing these problems, about eight years ago the directors of several Ohio zoos
expressed a keen interest in establishing a large animal breeding facility somewhere.
Soon some prominent Ohio businessmen, university officials, and natural resources

463

The Inti Center for the Preservation of Wild Animals. Contd

personnel joined in, and out of this conglomerate the International Center for the
Preservation of Wild Animals, Inc. (ICPWA) was established. Its stated goal is to
establish a reserve to breed endangered species, educate the public and conduct
research.

The first task, of course, was finding a suitable site. This was achieved relatively
quickly. The Ohio Power Company has donated 9,154 acres of reclaimed strip mine
land, an area that consists of a variety of habitats, including woods, lakes, ponds,
rolling hills and valleys. This land is in southeast Ohio near Cumberland, 12 miles
from Zanesville, 79 miles from Columbus, and 106 miles from Pittsburgh.

Imagine 9,154 acres! Some other figures may help put that in perspective. San Diego
Wild Animal Park is 1,800 acres. The Bronx Zoo's breeding and research facility at St.
Catherine's Island is 1 10 acres. The National Zoo's Conservation and Research Center
at Front Royal is 3,150 acres. In short, this could be the largest facility in the U.S.
devoted to the propagation of exotic and native plants and animals.

A Preliminary Master Plan has already been designed. At least certain areas of the
Preserve would be open to the public, both to gamer revenue and for educational
purposes. However, alot of it will be along the lines of Front Royal, isolated for
breeding and research purposes.

Considerable gains have been made by the Center in the last few years. It has both an
Executive Committee and a Board of Trustees. In addition to the complete donation of
the land by the Ohio Power Company, $400,000 has already been raised privately for
the Center. The State of Ohio has just appropriated $400,000 more that must be
matched by additional private donations. The Toledo and Cincinnati Zoo have each
contributed $10,000 to the Center for preliminary studies. Fund raising activities are
underway to gain additional revenue.

The need for such a facility as the International Center for the Preservation of Wild
Animals is even more apparent as more wildlife species become endangered every day.
This facility has the potential to be a premiere institution, not only for the U.S. but
worldwide. Every captive breeding facility in this country, not just Ohio and nearby
states, stands to gain from the research benefits and from animal transactions (sales
and loans) with the Center.

Since keepers are the ones most intimately involved with the animals, the Center is
looking for keeper ideas and input about animal area design. There is the possibility
that some crane species could be on the land within a year, so planning will be getting
underway very soon. If any AAZK Chapter or individual member would like to find
out more about the Center or its volunteer network, or has any input or suggestions,
please contact Dr. John Becker at The International Center for the Preservation of
Wild Animals, Inc., 85 East Gray Street, Suite 710, Columbus, OH 43215. Phone (614)
228-0402. „

Translocation of 1.1
Lowland Gorillas

By

Debra J. McGuire
Pittsburgh Zoo, Pittsburgh, PA

The Pittsburgh Zoo has joined a select group of 42 North American zoos and research
centers that house lowland gorillas ( Gorilla g. gorilla) . The process of acquiring these
animals has been a lengthy self-examination project, not only for the institution but for
the keepers involved.

In 1984, the Pittsburgh Zoo was in the process of designing a new, multi-million dollar
primate facility. A decision had been reached as to whether the Zoo would attempt to
establish a gorilla program. This was a very speculative decision, since the Zoo did not
own or even house gorillas at that time. After a long year of research and advice, the Zoo
and the City of Pittsburgh committed $7.5 million toward the development and
construction of a Species Survival Plan-approved gorilla facility.

In June 1985, a pair of gorillas became available for purchase from a Canadian zoo, thus
beginning a sixteen-month odyssey from Edmonton, Alberta to Pittsburgh, PA.

The gorillas were discovered on an obscure animal broker's list. Fortunately, we were
the first zoo to contact the firm and we were awarded the first purchase rights to the
gorillas. Along with the purchase rights we were also informed of the price: $240,000.
The Zoo received very little information about the animals, not even their current
location. We only knew that they were approximately 17 years old and wild-caught.

It was a real "Catch-22" situation. The dealer would not divulge any details until he had
a firm commitment from the Zoo and the Zoo would not commit until we received some
details. This impasse lasted ten days. During this time we did some investigation work
and narrowed down the possible gorilla candidates and institutions.

The day the broker decided to disclose some details, I had already discovered the probable
zoo in question. No, I did not find it listed in the International Zoo Yearbook . I found it in
a AAA tourist guide for Alberta.

There was yet another surprise awaiting us. The zoo's advertisement listed them as a
pair of rare mountain gorillas. Needless to say I could not believe it. The first thing I
did was check the gorilla studbook and registered there were 1.1 mountain gorillas.
Later that day I spoke to the owner of the gorillas and she confirmed my worst fear, that
the animals were indeed mountain gorillas. There was a glimmer of hope. They had
based their assessment of the gorilla subspecies on hearsay and the fact that the animals
had been exported from Zaire. There was no scientific evidence to back the claim.
Obviously we would not have continued the deal for mountain gorillas as there is no
ethical reason to import mountain gorillas. There is no breeding population or even other
mountain gorillas in captivity.

The next week the Zoo's veterinarian, Robert Wagner, and I were sent to Edmonton. My
job was to positively identify the gorillas as lowlands and Dr. Wagner's was to check
their health. When we arrived we found the animals to be Western lowlands and in
excellent health. We returned to Pittsburgh and quickly spread the good news. We were
naively expecting to return to Edmonton and bring the gorillas back in October 1985. We
were certainly mistaken.

465

Translocation of 1,1 Lowland Gorillas . Continued

After the Zoo sealed the deal for the purchase of the gorillas, we began the lengthy permit
process. Funding was sought for a temporary gorilla facility. As the summer progressed
and the permits were grinding through the first level of government, it became apparent
we would not meet our October 1985 target date.

This became the most trying time for the Zoo and for me. The Zoo was lacking in several
areas according to the permit review committee. One of these areas in which the Zoo was
deficient was in the aspect of recent keeper experience with gorillas. We rectified this by
my co-worker and I spending a week at the Columbus and Cincinnati Zoos, respectively.
After this and other criteria were met, the possibility arose that we might go for the
gorillas in late November.

However, the severity of Edmonton’s winter weather snuffed out that chance. So we set a
new target date of May 1986. We missed that one also, because of a philosophy change at
the Department of the Interior. The new director of the permit office felt that allowing the
Pittsburgh Zoo and two other U.S. zoos to import any gorillas into the country would
escalate the illegal poaching of wild gorillas populations. So we went back to the
proverbial drawing board. Suddenly we found ourselves wrestling with the moral
dilemma of paying $240,000 for a pair of gorillas. Would we be escalating the black
market price for illegally captured baby gorillas? The other side argued as to whether it
would be ethical to leave these non-represented gorillas out of the finite captive gene pool.

After two tense month of soul-searching and negotiations, all parties involved reached
an accord and allowed the import permits to be granted. Finally after 14 months of
mediations, we had a green light to go get the animals.

The first week in August was filled with constant phone confirmations with the airlines,
Department of the Interior and with International Animal Exchange, the firm contracted
to assist us with the move. Since this was the first time our team had ever escorted
animals across an international boundary, we were schooled in the many nuances of
checking gorillas through international customs. I don't have to tell you what a disaster
it would have been if a customs agent decided to search and seize one of the crates
containing the gorillas.

After all the millions of details were satisfied, such as transporting the carbon dioxide
cartridges in the pressurized cabin of the airplane and to check if we could put straw into
the crates since it is an agricultural product, our team finally left on Sunday, 10 August
1986, for Edmonton. Dr. Michael Cranfield of the Baltimore Zoo joined us and we left for
Edmonton.

After a six-hour flight, we arrived at the Polar Park Zoo in the late evening. There we
made plans with the Polar Park staff to remove all food, water and bedding from the
gorillas. They were also instructed to separate the animals, not an easy task since they
hadn't been separated in four years. The vets also left oral doses of Valium® for the
keeper to give the gorillas approximately 30 minutes before our arrival in the morning.
The dose for the female "Zakula" was 45 mgs. and worked very well. She was relaxed
and easily injected with 500 mgs. of lypholized Ketamine® via blowdart. Once fully
tranquilized, she was given a complete physical examination. This was the first time
she had ever been tranquilized or given a physical in her 17 years in captivity.

It was now time to sedate the male "Sultan". His oral 100 mgs. of Valium® had no effect
whatsoever. This may have been attributed to his agitated state. He was estimated to
weigh 230 kgs., so 300 mgs. of lypholized Ketamine® was injected via blowdart and we
waited the routine 15-20 minutes for the evidence of drug effect. After 25 minutes, he was
totally unaffected. Dr. Cranfield injected an additional dose of 1200 mgs. of
Ketamine®. Still Sultan was not sedated sufficiently to be crated. We were starting to
worry that we were not going to have enough drugs to knock him down. Finally, after an
injection of 25 mgs. of Xylazine® and a total of 4.0 gms. of lypholized Ketamine®,
Sultan was anesthetized sufficiently to be quickly crated. Unlike Zukala, we couldn't do

466

Translocation of 1.1 Lowland Gorillas . Continued

a very thorough physical on him as he was rapidly metabolizing the drugs. Hurriedly,
Dr. Wagner tested him for tuberculosis and listened to his chest cavity while Dr.
Cranfield drew blood and did a testicular exam. Sultan was hastily loaded into his
specially designed crate (see Figure I). He was fully awake in 45 minutes. Zukala was
still groggy two and a half hours later.

The gorillas and the gear were then loaded into a truck and transported to the Edmonton
Airport. There the gorillas and Dr. Wagner flew by Air Canada freighter to Toronto.
Dr. Cranfield and I flew on a commercial flight which arrived in Toronto three hours
ahead of them. The team was reunited at the Toronto Freight Terminal. At 3:00 a.m. on
Tuesday, we transferred to a cargo plane. While on the ground I offered the gorillas food
and water through the openings in the crates. Both gorillas took some food, but only
Zakula would accept some juice. Sultan was still testing the holding strength of his crate.
At 7:00 a.m. the gorillas and three very stressed humans left Toronto on the last leg of our
journey. This proved to be the most interesting leg of the trip. The plane was not exactly
new, the engines leaked oil, and there were holes in the floor. A trip that had taken 45
minutes two days earlier by jet, took 2 1/2 hours by freighter.

As we approached Pittsburgh, the copilot hand pumped the landing gear into the down
position and we landed. All that was left was the final inspection from the U.S. Customs
and Department of the Interior. We quickly accomplished these formalities and
unloaded the gorillas from the plane. The gorillas were then placed into two trucks and
transported to the Pittsburgh Zoo with a police escort.

After we arrived at the Zoo, it was decided to uncrate the female first since she was the
more cooperative of the pair. We also thought she would give Sultan the incentive to
uncrate himself so that he could see her. Zakula walked calmly out of her crate, did a
small display and climbed on her shelf to survey her new surroundings.

Sultan again proved to be a problem. He refused to leave his crate without some outside
motivation. Eventually he did leave his crate with a great burst of gusto. He flung
himself against the opposing wall and at the door, repeatedly doing the most impressive
chest-beating display I have ever experienced. Fifty-one hours after we left Pittsburgh,
we had two gorillas adjusting to their new home.

The gorillas and their keeper recovered from their journey. Sultan and Zakula spent the
next two weeks in quarantine. During this time they were introduced to new food items,
new keepers and a new cleaning routine. In the third week of their residence, the
gorillas were given access to the outdoor exhibit in the evenings after the Zoo closed. By
the end of the week they had become very comfortable in the exhibit. They were utilizing
all the aspects of the exhibit. The staff had been concerned they would not, since they had
never experienced vertical space before. It took Zakula about ten minutes to master the art
of arboreal acrobatics.

Since being translocated to Pittsburgh, we have seen some remarkable behaviors develop
in these animals. The gorillas had never bred and only a few isolated attempts had been
observed. Sultan and Zakula had been raised together from infancy and had developed
an incest taboo. Zakula was way past the age she would have emigrated from her natal
troop. Sultan expressed typical male protective behavior toward Zakula, but never
attempted to mount her or even to emit breeding vocalizations. So three months after they
arrived, we were surprised to find our non-breeding gorillas breeding. Three months
after copulation was observed, Zakula's very regular cycle of sexual receptivity was
seven days late. We ran a monoclonal HCG sensitivity pregnancy test and much to our
surprise received a positive result. Unfortunately, two days later a sample yielded a
negative result.

We don't profess to know why after 13 years these gorillas have started to breed. There
have been so many changes to the animals in the way they are managed. We have made
major changes in their diets. At their previous zoo they were not fed Monkey Chow® or a

467

Translocation of 1.1 Lowland Gorillas . Continued

substitute and were given a rather limited selection of produce. The first thing we did
was to introduce monkey chow to their diets and to expand their produce selections. We
also added regular fresh-cut browse as the season permitted. I also placed them on a
liquid multivitamin supplement and 100 mgs. of Vitamin E. In addition we regulated
Sultan's food intake to reduce his weight from 237 kg. to 220 kgs. The weight loss has
made him much more energetic and improved his ability to climb.

I would be hard pressed to pinpoint or select a single reason for the changes in behavior
exhibited by our gorillas. In my opinion, the most motivating force was the physical
move of the animals. The evidence of translocating females from one institution to
another has yielded positive results. Throughout the literature on gorillas I could find
very little evidence of moving a pair of gorillas that stimulated breeding without splitting
the pair and recombining the animals with other animals.

In summation, this experience has been a great adventure for myself and the other
Pittsburgh Zoo staff members. It's not often one received the opportunity to mold a gorilla
management program from the ground up. It has been a very gratifying exercise to see
the culmination of two years' worth of research blossom into a workable program.

Figure 1

y\AOt of &oa*os

rJOT To SCAL6

468

Translocation of 1.1 Lowland Gorillas . Continued

Products Mentioned in the Text:

Ketamine®

Ketamine HCL

Parke-Davis

Rompum®

Xylazine

Chemagro

Monkey Chow®

Ralston-Purina

References;

Dixson, A., The Natural History of the Gorilla. 1981, Columbia University Press,

New York, NY.

Fossey, D., Gorillas in the Mist. 1983, Houghton Mifflin Co., Boston, MA.

Graham. C.. (ed.) Reproductive Biology of the Great Apes, pp. 265-278, 365-368, 1981.
Academic Press Inc., New York, NY.

Maple, T. Gorilla Behavior. 1963, University of Chicago Press, Chicago, IL.

Schaller, G. The Mountain Gorilla. 1963, University of Chicago Press, Chicago, IL.
Tuttle, R. (ed.) Apes of the World, pp. 286-302. 1986. Noyes Publications, Park Ridge, NJ.

469

Diet Notebook - the Past to the Present

Susan Bunn , Diet Notebook Coordinator
Minnesota Zoological Garden
Apple Valley, MN

Man has always been fascinated with animals, often keeping them in captivity. For
some species little knowledge of their needs was available. Often these species survived
only short periods of time in captivity, requiring their replacement with more wild-
caught animals. Other species survived but did not reproduce well, again requiring their
replacement with wild-caught animals. Still others thrived and reproduced no matter
what they were fed or how they were housed. Today's zoological institutions try to provide
nutritionally balanced diets and proper housing for all the species they maintain. Many
wildlife biologists are working to identify and describe the natural histories of even the
most obscure species, and this information is being applied to captive animal
management.

Understanding the need for nutritionally balanced diets of animals in their collections,
modern zoos now discourage visitors from throwing popcorn, marshmallows and other
inappropriate foods to their animals. In areas where the public is allowed to feed
animals, the proper food is dispensed by coin-operated machines, to benefit of the animal,
the public and the zoo's budget. The American Association of Zoo Keepers, Inc. (AAZK) is
proud to contribute to the data base of nutritional and dietary information with the Diet
Notebook.

The Diet Notebook began at the 1982 National AAZK Conference held at the Metro Toronto
Zoo, in order to fill the need for information about diets. Diets in zoos around the world
vary considerably, as does our success in keeping certain species. It was decided that a
collection of diets currently in use could assist institutions in formulating balanced and
nutritious diets for new or difficult to manage species.

The South Florida AAZK Chapter completed the initial stages of the diet notebook. They
designed the response form, organized the first coordinators, and began collecting diets.
In 1983 Terrie Correl, Sedgwick County Zoo, and Kelli Westbrook, Little Rock Chapter
AAZK, were appointed as coordinators for the mammal and bird sections, respectively.
Janice Martin, Assiniboine Park Zoo, was chosen to be the activity coordinator for
Canada. The reptile coordinator position was filled in 1984 by Brint Spencer. In 1986,
after the majority of diets had been collected, I became Diet Notebook coordinator with the
task of assimilating and compiling the submitted diets.

The Diet Notebook is divided into four sections: 1) Mammals, 2) Birds, 3) Reptiles,
Amphibians, Fish and Invertebrates, and 4) Appendix. The appendix includes company
product sheets, nutritional values, and a list of reference materials.

The loose-leaf format of the notebook is designed to allow the addition of new and revised
diets. All diets have been arranged in and grouped by taxonomic order. Colorful index
tabs are used to distinguish each taxonomic order, and individual species are then
identified by scientific name. Some zoos identify their animals to subspecific level -
these should also be included in your search.

470

Diet Notebook - the Past to the Present. Continued

Each species and subspecies has been assigned its International Species Inventory
System (ISIS) number. This sixteen digit numerical system will aid in the location of
animals and in the addition of diets. The ISIS number is actually a taxonomic code e.g.:
Barbary Lion Panthera tea tea ISIS# 1412007002001002

CLASS

14 Mammalia

ORDER

12 Carnivora

FAMILY

007 Felidae

GENUS

002 Panthera

SPECIES

001 Leo

SUBSPECIES

002 leo

The original response forms was used for mammals, birds, and reptiles and
amphibians; a revised form was developed for fish and invertebrates. As stated before,
common name, scientific name, order, and ISIS number are all listed. The contributor
and institution where the diet is being used are listed; if you have any questions please
check with them. The date the diet was submitted, how long the diet has been in use, and
the breeding status of the species at the institution are included. Some of the information
may need to be updated. Often publication cannot keep up with the rate of change.
Because of this, the notebook is not intended to be the gospel, rather it is intended to be the
starting point of your search for information.

The remaining questions on the response form pertain to the diet itself. How many
animals are fed from the diet? What are the contents of the diet? Are there any
instructions for preparing the diet? Is there a specific time the diet is fed, or how is the
food accepted? Are there any special considerations which need to be noted? Please list
the nutritional analysis, if available. These questions were designed to give you the
information needed.

The number of animals fed from the diet given may vary. Hoofstock are commonly fed
together but many carnivores are fed separately. The number given may be the total
number of animals fed from the diet or the amount for one individual.

Individual zoos seem to display a preference for certain food items used in many of their
diets. This preference is probably due to local availability, history of success with the
food item, and cost. After looking through the diets, it was noted that many hoofstock
diets were very similar, while primate and small mammal diets were often dissimilar.
The greatest variation among diets is seen in those which use produce as the main
ingredient.

Instructions for Preparation of the diets could range from something as simple as
feeding one food item or as complex as mixing and grinding several ingredients, such
as fish burgers at the Shedd Aquarium. Instructions for food preparation may also be
important to the acceptance of the diet.

The section for Notes and Remarks gives the respondent the opportunity to explain the
feeding schedule and food preparation. How the food is presented may be an important
part of how well the food is accepted; as in the case of some tree vipers, it may be necessary
to present the food live or give the appearance of live food by slap feeding. It may also be
important to note that if sun bears are given their diet in a metal pan, soon after the diet is
consumed the animals may use the pan for a projectile - bouncing it off the walls or
ceiling or biting numerous holes in the metal pans. Some diets may not be readily

471

Diet Notebook - the Past to the Present. Continued

accepted when first introduced to the animal, but after several days of being fed the new
cuisine the animal begins to eat readily.

Special Considerations is the section where changes occurring in a species' diet are
indicated. For example, changes in the diet may be appropriate seasonally, for pregnant
and lactating females, or for overweight animals. Often medication is given in the diet,
this should also be included. The information varies greatly from institution to
institution.

Many of the nutritional analysis sections on the response form were left blank. Product
names and company addresses have been included, if you need the nutritional analysis
you may write directly to the company. We hope to complete this information and include
it in the appendix, but this will be a time consuming process.

Each major taxonomic group was assigned a coordinator to collect the diets. After
collecting the diets, the coordinators review them looking for a variety of "trouble spots".
Because the coordinators are familiar with the animals in their section, they may be able
to catch any of these "trouble spots" before they go further. For example, many animals
may have more than one common name (but they have only one scientific name), or if the
species' scientific name was accidently omitted the coordinator often has the necessary
background to fill it in. Several diets have had discrepancies between these names,
because I may not be familiar with the animal, the coordinator may need to be called to
correct the problem. Unfamiliar handwriting may also contribute to errors, therefore we
request that response forms be typed or printed.

Karen Bongratz, from the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, has recently been appointed
the coordinator of the mammal section. At present, the section contains approximately
325 diets, representing 213 species and subspecies from 14 zoos. Forty zoo keepers
responded to the forms that were sent to their institutions.

The number of diets per species varies from one to eight. Many "high profile" animals
such as tigers, elephants, and hippopotamuses are well represented. Surprisingly few
diets are available for others, such as the chimpanzees. There is a great variety of
animals being exhibited in zoos in North America, and many of these species are
currently represented by one diet. It is hoped that other zoo staff will be encouraged to
complete the diet response form now that the first section of the notebook is completed.

Since the onset of the project, Kelli Westbrook has been the coordinator for the bird
section; this is the next section to be completed for printing. Birds are often exhibited in
mixed aviaries, and one diet may serve for a variety of species. For example, a softbill
diet may be used for leafbirds and thrushes. In reviewing many of the diets already
collected, I have noticed that some species are listed by the diet they are fed. The
information is good and complete, but for uniformity and to facilitate finding the
information in the diet notebook, it will be organized by species instead of by diet.
Because of this we request the response form to be completed by species.

Since 1985 Brint Spencer has been the coordinator for the Reptile and Amphibian section.
For many reptiles their diet consists of simply feeding the animal a rat or mouse, but
many diets are more complex. For example, the King cobra's natural diet is snakes. At
the Minnesota Zoo it is fed a "pseudo snake", consisting of bird of prey diet alternated
with mice stuffed in a sausage casing. The tortoise diet at Minnesota Zoo consists of
cooked carrots, green beans, rabbit pellets, kale, apples, oranges, bananas, canned
primate, and cactus when available.

Garret Glodek has been appointed coordinator of the fish section since the spring of 1987.
Although many fish have been kept for centuries relatively few have been bred by
hobbyists and the secrets of their diets are often mysterious. Garret is working to solve
those mysteries with the collection of diets for this section. He, along with Susan Kenney,
modified the original diet form to more closely fit the needs of fish and invertebrates.

472

Diet Notebook - the Past to the Present. Continued

Susan Kenney was appointed the coordinator for invertebrates in 1987. Since her
appointment, Susan has helped modify the fish and invertebrate form and has delivered
a paper entitled "A Diet Notebook for Fish and Invertebrates" at the Great Lakes AAZPA
Regional conference. She is looking forward to contributing to ^the information
concerning the diets for invertebrates.

The appendix is the final section of the diet notebook. It will contain the compilation of
nutritional analysis for individual dietary products and produce, e.g. vegetables, fruit,
hay, etc. A complete list of manufacturers, their addresses, and their products will also be
included. A list of reference materials (books, published papers and articles) is being
created. Anyone with reference material to be included should write the information on
the response form or send it to me directly.

The purpose of the Diet Notebook is to supply zookeepers and institutions with a starting
point when formulating diets for new or difficult to maintain species. The notebook is
strictly a collection of diets, none of the diets have been analyzed for accuracy or
completeness. The contributor and the institution where the diet is used are included;
please contact them if you have any questions.

A project such as the Diet Notebook cannot be completed without the help of many people.
The South Florida AAZK Chapter began this project, giving it life and form. Kerry
Hoffman was the board advisor when I first began this project. He skillfully answered
my bombardment of questions. Presently Brint Spencer is the Board Advisor, answering
the questions that arise. The coordinators have helped collect and review the diets, as
well as generate many helpful ideas. And of course thanks must be sent to all those who
have completed the response forms.

Bob Vanstrom, a volunteer from the Minnesota Zoo, deserves recognition for the many
hours he spent entering the data into the computer and editing the data. These
computerized diets were then reviewed by myself, Brint Spencer, and Jay Peterson, all
keepers at the Minnesota Zoo, to find the inevitable typographical errors.

At this stage the notebook was sent to Susan Chan at AAZK National-Headquarters, who
systematically overcame numerous glitches involved in such an undertaking. She also
performed the miracle of laser printing and is to be commended for her efforts in
producing this very professional and readable notebook.

I believe it is safe to say that everyone involved has learned a great deal. Personally I
have learned about many mammals which I was previously unaware existed. I have
enjoyed the opportunity to learn, and more importantly, to have the chance to work with so
many enthusiastically helpful people.

&

473

Management of Freshwater Gamefish
at the Milwaukee County Zoo

By

Richard A. Sqjdak
Aquarium/Reptile Curator
Milwaukee County Zoo , Milwaukee , WI

Since the Milwaukee County Zoo's Aquarium/Reptile building opened in 1968, one of the
Zoo's most popular exhibits has been Lake Wisconsin, a 178,000 liter (47,000gals) display
of Wisconsin gamefish. Occupying the center of the Aquarium/Reptile building, the
exhibit is 22.3m (68ft) long and 7.2m (22ft) wide (see Figure 1). The aquarium is 2.9m
(9ft) deep, and contains three gunite 'islands' which serve both as visual barriers for the
public display windows and as work stations for the keepers.

Lake Wisconsin was built to capitalize on the popularity and economic importance of sport
fishing in Wisconsin. It is estimated that about 24% of the state's population engage in
sport fishing, generating over $30 million annually for the state's economy. These
fishermen are some of the most eager observers of Lake Wisconsin.

The focal point of the display, the most popular fish, is the muskellunge ( Esox
masauinongv) . The muskie is the premier gamefish in Wisconsin, and one of the most
sought after trophy fish in North America. A relative of the northern pike ( Esox lucius ).
the muskie reaches over 1.9m (6ft) in length, and has a sport fishing record weight of
31.7kg (691bs, 15oz). The largest specimens exhibited at the Milwaukee County Zoo were
about 9kg (201bs).

Lake Wisconsin contains over_150 fish of 30 species (Table 1) including yellow perch
( Perea flavescens) . bluegills ( Lepomis macrochirus) . bullheads ( Ictalurus sp.) and other
panfish. Gamefish displayed include channel catfish ( Ictalurus punctatus ). largemouth
and smallmouth bass ( Micropterus salmoides and M dolomieui) . walleye ( Stizostedion
vitreumm) . and northern pike. In addition, Lake Wisconsin is home to rough fish and
oddities such as the longnose gar (Leuisosteus osseus) . carp (Cyprinius carvio ). American
eel ( Anauilla rostrara) and grass carp ( Ctenonharvngodon idella ).

Water quality in Lake Wisconsin is maintained by a recirculating filtration system.
The display tank has three surface skimmer drains and six bottom drains which feed
water by gravity to a 49.4 sq m (532 sq ft) slow sand filter. This filter serves to remove
particulate matter from the water, oxygenate the water, and provide a substrate for
biological filtration to remove nitrogenous wastes from the display water. The system is
capable of operation at a flow rate of 1900 to 2300 L (500-600 gal) per minute, but is usually
operated at a quarter of that rate. Thus, the entire volume of Lake Wisconsin 'turns over'
in about 5-6 hours. From the sand filter, pumps move the water either directly back to the
display or, optionally, to a diatomite filter of 53.5 sq m (576 sq ft) surface area for removal
of additional particulate matter.

Water changes and water losses are made up from the 246,000 L (65,000 gal) reservoir.
The reservoir is served by municipal water, pretreated by passing through one of a pair of
0.9 cu m (32 cu ft) activated carbon columns to remove chlorine, chloramines and other
dissolved organics.

Maintenance of the Lake Wisconsin display involved cleaning the windows with
longhandled brushes, observing the fish for signs of distress or disease, and feeding.
Twice a year, a keeper dons diving gear and cleans windows and lights, checks and
cleans the water returns and bottom drains. The filtration system is maintained by
backwashing every four to six weeks.

474

Management of Freshwater Gameflsh at the Milwaukee Countv Zoo

Cont’d.

475

FIGURE 1: Top view of Lake Wisconsin display. Circles = bottom
drains. Squares = surface drains, and Triangles = water returns.

Management of Freshwater Gamefish at the Milwaukee Countv Zoo

Cont'd.

TABLE 1

Fish species in Lake Wisconsin

Coirimop Name

Scientific Name

£,fi£.Speciniens

Rock Bass

Ambloplites rupestris

3

Bowfin

Amia calva

2

American eel

Anguilla rostrata

3

Freshwater Drum

Aplodinotus grunniens

4

Quillback

Carpiodes cyprinus

4

Carp

Cyprinus carpio

4

Tiger Muskellunge

Esox masquinongy x E. lucius

3

Northern Pike

Esox lucius

2

Muskellunge

Esox masquinongyi

3

Channel Catfish

Ictalurus punctatus

10

Bullhead

Ictalurus sp.

12

Smallmouth Buffalo

Ictiobus bubalus

1

Black Buffalo

Ictiobus niger

1

Longnosed Gar

Lepisosteus osseus

8

Shortnosed Gar

Lepisosteus platostomus

8

Pumpkinseed

Lepomis gibbosus

12

Bluegill

Lepomis macrochirus

23

Hybrid Sunfish

Lepomis sp. (hybrid)

5

Green Sunfish

Lepomis cyanellus

5

Smallmouth Bass

Micropterus dolomieui

8

Largemouth Bass

Micropterus salmoides

12

White Bass

Morone chrysops

6

Yellow Bass

Morone mississippiensis

2

Yellow Perch

Perea flavescens

4)

White Crappie

Pomoxis annularis

4

Black Crappie

Pomoxis nigromaculatus

12

Flathead Catfish

Pylodictis olivaris

2

Grass Carp

Squalius caphalus

1

Walleye

Stizostedion vitreum

8

Water quality checks are made on a weekly basis using Lamotte® color comparison test
kits. Tests taken include nitrite and ammonia levels, pH, and temperatures. Nitrite and
ammonia levels are regularly under 0.02 ppm; pH is 7.6. Oxygen levels vary with
temperature from 7.5 to 11 mg/L, but are usually near saturation level; hardness is
around 140 ppm.

The Lake Wisconsin display is not temperature controlled. It has a water heating system,
but no cooling capacity. Water temperatures vary seasonally, reaching up to 24° C (75° F)
in summer, down to 10° C (50° F) in winter.

Lake Wisconsin fish are fed primarily on live fathead minnows ( (Imenhales promelas) .
golden shiners (Notemigonus crvsoleucas ). white suckers (Catostomus commersoni ) and
hatchery trout ( Salmo sp.). Minnows, shiners and suckers are obtained weekly from a
commercial supplier, trout 4-5 times yqarly from hatcheries. About 13.5kg (301bs) of live
fish are fed off each week.

Feeding of live fish is somewhat controversial as each introduction of feed fish potentially
adds many pathogens and parasites to the aquarium. In an effort to minimize parasite
introduction, the feed fish are given a half hour bath in a formalin solution (0.25 ml of 10%
buffered formalin/L or 1 ml/gal) before being placed in the display.

476

Management of Freshwater Gamefish at the Milwaukee Countv Zoo.

Coat'd.

A live fish diet is almost essential for highly predaceous fish such as muskellunge, pike,
and garfish to thrive, especially in a large, mixed species situation where controlled
feeding is not possible. Feeding live fish also helps prevent predation on smaller display
fish by large pikes and muskies. Muskellunge are selective feeders, and prefer to prey on
elongate fish without spiny fins such as trout or suckers. Thus, if a population of 10-30 cm
(4-12 in) trout is kept in the display, predation on spiny finned display fish such as
bluegills and yellow perch can be kept at a minimum.

Even species which can be acclimated to dead or prepared foods, such a walleyes, perch
and crappies (Pomoxis sp.), display better growth and longevity on a live food diet. At the
Milwaukee County Zoo we have raised walleyes to weights of over 3kg (6.5 lbs) and
crappies to more than 1 kg (2.2 lbs) using a live fish diet. In addition to being a high
quality diet, large schools of golden shiners offer a visual highlight to the display.

The live fish diet is supplemented with 0.2 kg (0.5 lbs) of Purina Trout Chow® twice
weekly and occasional feedings of nightcrawlers. Trout Chow helps to provide adequate
food for bottom feeders and scavengers such as Bullheads, buffalo ( Ictiobus sp.),
quillbacks ( Carpiodes sp.) and carp.

One of the challenges in running a display such as Lake Wisconsin is obtaining and
acclimating fish for the display. At the Milwaukee County Zoo, we are fortunate to have
the support of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR). When hatchery or
fish survey crews are operating, they notify us that fish are available, and keepers are
sent with a truck and haul tank to pick up the fish, or the DNR delivers the fish to the zoo.

Support of this kind is almost essential for our operation, since many species that we wish
to display are not commercially available. Even when commercially available, such as
hatchery stock, raising fry to display size (remembering that large muskies and other
predators will eat on small fish) is very labor intensive and often impractical for the zoo.
The alternative, sending out our own crews to collect fish, is not feasible due to staffing
constraints.

One alternative we do use is to place surplus muskies and pike in Lake Evenrude, the
28,000 sq m (7 acres) pond on the Zoo grounds. By holding these fish available on the zoo
grounds, we can obtain these fish as necessary by fishing with artificial lures.

These mixed species shipments of wild caught, adult fish have been roughly handled,
captured in nets or by electroshock equipment, netted into holding/haul tanks, and often
transported in poor water conditions. On arriving at the Zoo, the fish are highly stressed,
with torn fins, missing scales, and abrasions.

The fish are totally unaccustomed to cramped captive situations and water quality
fluctuations. This leads to physiological stress and physical injury during the first few
days from encounters with tank sides during flight reactions. The combination of
wounds and lowered resistance from stress leave the fish open to secondary infections. In
our experience, the most common post mortem findings in newly arrived fish has been
Aeromonas and Pseudomonas septicemia.

To alleviate such problems, we have instituted handling/quarantine procedures which
have been effective in reducing fish losses. All fish, upon arrival, are anesthetized using
quinaldine sulfate (QSO 4 ) buffered with sodium bicarbonate (NaHC03). Dosage levels
used are: 16mg QSO 4 + 7.2mg NaHC03/L or 60.5mg QSO 4 + 27mg NaHC03/gal.
(Solomon, D.J. in. Hawkins, A.D., 1981). Buffered QSO 4 is made up for use in
premeasured doses for 19, 95 or 380L (5, 25 and 100 gal).

For use, the premeasured dose is dissolved in a small mount of water and slowly poured
into the tank, being careful not to pour directly onto the fish. To begin, only half of the

477

Management of Freshwater Gamefish at the Milwaukee Countv Zoo.

Cont’d.

recommended dosage is administered. The fish then are observed for signs of stress. We
wait at least ten minutes before adding the second half of the dose if necessary. Split
dosage is used because species vary in sensitivity to the drug. In our experience, smaller
specimens are more sensitive than larger ones, and bluegills and other spiny rayed fish
are more sensitive than carp. Catfish are very resistant to the drug, especially large
flathead catfish (Pylodictis olivaris) . Affected fish are then removed before adding
additional drug. A holding tank with fresh, untreated water is always available for
recovery or emergencies.

Resistant fishes may be treated with an additional 50% of the recommended dosage (up to
150% of recommended dosage). If some fish are still not affected, either the procedure is 1)
stopped or modified, 2) the fish may be manually restrained, or 3) the situation is
discussed with the veterinarian.

While anesthetized, the fish are inspected and severely injured fish are culled and
euthanized. Fish to be kept are given an injection of chloramphenicol at 55mg/kg
intraperitoneally to help them resist stress induced bacterial infection. They are then
moved to a formalin bath (0.25ml of 10% buffered formalin/L) for a one half hour parasite
treatment. The fish are then moved to a 3200 L (850 gal) round quarantine tank for a thirty
day quarantine period. Lights are kept dim, and disturbance is kept to a minimum
during the quarantine period.

The only exceptions to this quarantine procedure are the large muskies and northern
pike, which are too excitable and active to tolerate a confined quarantine tank. If kept in
small holding tanks, muskies and pike will continually injure themselves, quickly
succumbing to infection. They are anesthetized, given a chloramphenicol injection and
formalin parasite bath, and moved directly into the display tank.

Quarantine and holding tanks are maintained without filtration systems, by using a
constant flow of reservoir water. Using an open system for quarantine and treatment
tanks has the advantage of removing pathogens and environmental problems with the
waste water, rather than concentrating them as they might be in a closed system. Also,
when therapeutic agents are added to the water, amounts needed can be minimized by
drawing down the water level before treatment. Finally, most therapeutants added to the
water are irritating or potentially damaging to the fish. By shutting off the water flow, the
drug can be used in higher, more effective levels and then be quickly removed after the
treatment period or if the treated fish show signs of stress, by resuming the water flow at a
high rate, diluting and flushing the therapeutant from the tank.

Often, during the first days of quarantine, 22.6kg (501b) salt blocks are added to the open
system as a stress reliever (Wedemeyer, et al, 1976). Fish under stress are known to lose
electrolytes through excretion and through wounds (Eddy, F.B. in Pickering, A.D., 1981).
Salt is thought to help replace these electrolytes. Salt is also believed to help remove excess
mucous which builds up in the gills of stressed fish thereby reducing gas exchange.

While in quarantine, the fish are observed for signs of disease. If problems occur, a
diagnosis is made from a postmortem exam, biopsy, or external signs. A treatment plan
is then initiated.

Before being moved to display or holding tanks, the fish are examined by a staff
veterinarian. When being moved, the fish are once again anesthetized with buffered
QS04, and any fish unsuitable for display is culled. Fish are moved by lifting them by
hand into containers of fresh water or half strength QSO 4 solution 8mg/L) To prevent the
removal of the protective mucous coat on the fish’s body, hands or implements used to hold
the fish should be wet, and handling should be kept to a minimum. This method alleviates
damage to fish from nets, as well as physiological stress caused by chasing fish with nets.

478

Management of Freshwater Gamefish at the Milwaukee County Zoo.

Cont'd.

Fish are then moved to Lake Wisconsin or holding tanks, where the fish are removed
from transport containers by hand and placed in the display or tank. Most fish recover
from anesthesia very quickly. If a fish is slow in recovery, a keeper will hold the fish in
the water and work the fish back and forth in the water until revived. Respiratory action
is sometimes depressed by anesthesia. Moving the fish through the water maximizes the
movement of the water over the gills, provides extra oxygen, and flushes any remaining
QSO 4 from the gills.

Use of the outlines procedures at the Milwaukee County Zoo has proven effective in
maintaining a popular and successful display and healthy fish.

Acknowledgments

I would like to thank the Aquarium/Reptile building keepers, especially Jack Uphill and
John Kowalsky; Ken Schoenrock, aquarist; Dr. Andie Lenhard, Staff Veterinarian; and
the many others who helped to formulate and implement the procedures discussed, as well
as assisting in putting this report together. Thanks also to Richard Bartz for putting the
Lake Wisconsin illustration together.

Literature Cited

Eddy, F.B. 1981. Effects of stress on osmotic and ionic regulation in fish.

in Pickering, A.D. 1981. Stress and fish. 367pp. Academic Press.

Solomon, D.J. 1981. Fish capture and transport. In Hawkins, A.D. 1981. Aquarium
Systems. 452pp. Academic Press.

Wedemeyer, G.A., F.P. Meyer, and L. Smith. 1976. Diseases of fishes. Book 5:
Environmental stress and fish diseases. 192pp. TFH Publications.

9

479

Destined for Survival:

A Papua New Guinea Expedition

By

Kimberly Livingston, Bird Keeper
Miami Metrozoo, Miami, FL

"Pave Paradise, Put Up a Parking Lot" .....Joni Mitchell

Throughout time, man has struggled to understand the intricacies of his world. Immense
effort is put forth daily, yet continuing research ultimately yields new questions. His self-
righteous ways have brought about the decline of species around the globe. Mankind poses
a serious threat to the ecological balance.

Just below the equator in the Southern Hemisphere quietly lies the highest and second
largest island in the world. New Guinea and its satellite islands were formed by the
interaction of the Australian and Pacific tectonic plates.

It is estimated that man may have arrived on New Guinea as many as 50,000 years ago.
Yet, he has done irreparable damage to the island in just the past few decades.

In 1983, the New York Zoological Society introduced the American Zoo Consortium. Its
main purpose was to salvage birds from areas of Papua New Guinea where forest habitat
was scheduled for removal. (Risser, 1984). Contributions from participating institutions
were pooled to conduct biological surveys. There was anticipation of potential nature
preserves, wildlife management areas, or sanctuaries.

On the 1984 expedition, a botanical program was initiated by the Zoological Society of San
Diego. Botanical specimens were collected as horticultural material for exhibits, as well
as appropriate edible plants for birds.

In August 1986, I was fortunate to join the expedition on behalf of Miami Metrozoo. Other
participating zoos include Los Angeles, San Diego and New York. Upon my arrival in
Papua New Guinea, I was able to witness firsthand the habitat destruction and wildlife
exploitation.

A typical square kilometer or 100 hectares (247 acres) plot of lowland forest supports an
average of 150 species. Approximately 85 percent of Papua New Guinea's 46,000,000 ha.
(113,666,000 acres) are tree-covered and about one-third or 13,000,000 ha. (32,123,000 acres)
can be regarded as accessible commercial forest. (Ranck, et al, 1985). There is a great
variety of hardwood and softwood species. Most readily accessible in the mountainous
country are oak, pine, cedar and beech trees.

As man continues to alter the environment, significant changes are rapidly occurring.
A good example is Jimi River Valley, one of our collecting sites. Grasslands are
expanded to produce larger cattle grazing areas. The forests are receding to the base of the
mountains. Native settlements also continue to expand. With expansion comes a larger
demand for housing materials, commercial lumber and firewood.

While collecting in Jimi River Valley, I noticed vocalizations from the wild interspersed
with the distant whine of chainsaws. As the habitat is depleted, the naturally occurring
avifauna is becoming impoverished. Blameless workers fuel the furnace of extinction
which mankind will certainly enter in his day.

480

Destined for Survival: A Papua New Guinea Expedition. Contd

New Guinea is fascinating in many ways. The human inhabitants share a meaningful
bond with the land. Once thought to be common, cannibalism is ostensibly nonexistent.
Ancestral tradition, however, still continues.

Moka, or self-decoration, has long been a tribal custom. The native societies of New
Guinea utilize decoration as a means of self-expression. It's also a demonstration of
their relationship to their ancestral spirits, and to make statements about social and
religious values. Some of the wearers say, It has no meaning, it's just decoration."
(Strath ern, 1971).

The most important traditional items used in ritual dances or "sing-sings" are plumes,
furs and shells. Plumes make up the most important category of decorations, while whole
skins and tail feathers are also used. Of the bird plumes owned by the natives are many
, different species of birds of paradise, cassowary, parrot and hawk, just to name a few.

Hunters will build hides or shelters in or near a tree where birds of paradise display.
Conversely, we utilized hides to photograph and observe the spectacular display of these
elusive birds. There have been accounts of hunters being mesmerized and unable to shoot
as they watch the birds in their display and courting rituals.

The feathers are treasured and traded throughout generations. The village people possess
an adornment of Papuan bird life. In their eyes, the killings are not evil or vicious, but
rather an expression of their culture.

Even with an accessible Raggiana bird of paradise display tree inside the village,
villagers did not kill the birds. Instead they stated: "We enjoy watching the lovely
males, with their orange plumes, flying around our village; we have plenty of plumes
from before; should we someday require more, we will get them out of the bush, not from
this nearby dance tree, where the birds can bring us daily pleasure." (Beehler, et al, 1986).

During the expedition, we collected species of two unique and very diverse locations. Our
first site was located in the central highlands 97 km. (60 miles) southeast of Mt. Hagen on
the southern slopes of Mt. Giluwe or Mt. of the Dog, named after packs of New Guinea wild
dogs ( Canis hallstromi ) that make it their home.

Our camp was set up on top of an abandoned sawmill where selected logging had occurred
in 1984. Camp elevation was approximately 2,560 m. (8,400 ft.). This province is known
for its assorted birds of paradise. In the four days I was there we were able to observe/catch
36 species of birds.

Our 9 m. (30 ft.) long mist nets were set up at various locations from ground level to 18 m.
(60 ft.) high. During morning and later afternoon hours I observed the magnificent
ribbon-tailed bird of paradise ( Astravia maveri) in full color flying gracefully above the
treetops. Their telling cries seemed to warn others of the imminent capture below.
Immature ribbon-tailed bird of paradise and females were captured, as well as a brown
sicklebill (Epimachus meveri) . crested bird of paradise ( Chemophilus macgregorii) .
Belford's melidectes ( Melidectes belfordi) , common smokey honeyeater ( Melipotes
fumigatus) and Papuan lorikeet ( Charmosyna ncwou ) among others.

We temporarily housed these birds in either portable cages or a small aviary that was
constructed earlier. They stayed here until transfer to Baiyer River Sanctuary was
possible.

Nets were checked throughout the day. This involved walking a mile or two through
mountainous terrain and foliage. The weather was usually misty and rainy. Average
temperature was 60° F.

On one occasion I walked to the end of the deforested area. To my amazement I observed a
foraging party of blue-capped finches (Ifrita kowaldi) . They fed on limbs, bark, leaves
and mossy trunks. They were in the remains of a once dense moss forest.

481

Destined for Survival: A Papua New Guinea Expedition. Contd

Collection on Mt. Giluwe was successful. We closed camp on 14 August 1986.

Our second collection site, previously established in Jimi River Valley, an 18,212 ha.
(45,000 acres) ranch owned and operated by Jimi River Cattle Company. With an
elevation of 518 m. (1,700 ft.), the climate was hot and humid. Daytime temperatures
reached into the 90°s F. High temperatures fostered the growth of insect life which no
doubt contributes to the high incidence of malaria in this area.

The ranch was under expansion. Bulldozing and slash/burn techniques are generally
employed. The existing rainforest proved to be very dense. We were collecting in the
ecotone, an area between the forest and pasture. Nets were set at 9 m. (30 ft.) long areas
cleared by hand with machetes. Bush poles were cut and used much the same way as a
flag pole with the net stretched between. Nets were set at intervals from ground level to 31
m. (100 ft.)

Birds of paradise, hornbills and fruit doves called continuously throughout the day. Our
nets proved productive as we collected and shipped King bird of paradise (Cicinnurus
regius) . white-eared catbird ( Ailuroedus buccoides) . and Stephan's ground dove
( Chalcophaps stephani) . Five species of kingfisher ( Alcedinidae ) were caught and
released. Because of their specialized diet (arthropods, small vertebrates), it was difficult
to maintain them in our situation. Strict government supervision prohibits importation
of live food which is essential to maintain these species in captivity.

This ecotone was frequently habituated by fawn-breasted bowerbirds ( Chlamydera
cerviniventris) . I observed a male vocalizing just on the periphery of the rainforest.
Within a short period of time we discovered his terrestrial display site, known as a
"bower". Utilizing twigs and forming a "U" shaped tunnel on the ground, the bowerbird
decorates the inside with colorful objects, such as berries and flowers. This is where he
entices the female inside to copulate. Then she alone builds and tends the nest. These
species are quite individualized and their bowers are unique forms of art.

Jimi River Valley proved to be a challenging and difficult collecting site. We closed
camp on 20 August 1986 to move on to the base camp.

Baiyer River Sanctuary, located 64 km. (40 mi.) north of Mt. Hagen displays Papua New
Guinea's exotic flora and fauna. Set inside a gorge, the Sanctuary is bounded by three
rivers: Jimi, Gernt and Lai.

The Sanctuary is the base of operations for the zoo consortium. Inside this National Park
and under the direction of Superintendent Roy McKay, there is a successfully
maintained captive breeding program. It includes birds of paradise, as well as other
vertebrate species. All specimens collected at Mt. Giluwe and Jimi River Valley are
temporarily housed here. After their arrival at Baiyer River, they undergo a period of
acclimation to a new diet and surroundings prior to shipment. Also we are able to observe
the birds closely in a relaxed environment.

Since it was very difficult to bring food items into the country, we devised our diet
utilizing readily accessible items. It was composed of water, canned fruit cocktail,
insectivores mix, Nekton® lory and papaya. This diet was accepted by all the birds.

After four days of constructing shipping crates and with the proper permits in order, we
were able to ship 90 specimens. They were fed at the airport cargo hold area prior to
shipping, then again at the Manila and Tokyo stopovers, finally to arrive in Honolulu,
Hawaii, for a 30-day quarantine.

Our shipment cleared quarantine with only one casualty, a male crested bird of paradise
( Cnemophilus macgregorii ). The remaining birds were divided up in Honolulu and
shipped to their designated institutions.

482

Destined for Survival: A Papua New Guinea Expedition. Confd

Miami Metrozoo currently displays most of the collected birds in its 1.5 acre (6,070 sq. m.)
free-flight aviary, Wings of Asia. Opened to the public in December 1984, it houses
almost 300 specimens representing 70 species.

To date we experienced nesting attempts by our pair of ribbon-tailed bird of paradise.
Because of their extreme aggressiveness toward other species, they were removed from the
exhibit. Unfortunately, they later died. Necropsy revealed aspargillosis in the female, a
disease affecting the air sacs and lungs. The male, however, contracted a disease of
which little is understood. Hemochromatosis, or excessive iron storage, has been
documented in mynahs, hornbills, tanagers, birds of paradise and others. Thus far we
have lost four species of birds of paradise to this disease. In most cases, the death was
asymptomatic. A few exhibited weight loss and depression prior to death. It is unknown
whether this problem exists in the wild or if it is exclusively diet related. Further
research is necessary to make accurate determinations.

Deforestation, self decoration, low nest survival rate and disease all contribute to the
decline of the natural avifauna of Papua New Guinea. Who knows how many species
approach extinction before they are described by science.

The American zoo consortium is a small group of individuals fighting against forces
over which they have little control. Because of political unrest in the country, collecting
efforts are now at a standstill. New Guinea is plagued by the same problems as
rainforests around the world. The zoo consortium and others are doing what resources
permit to educate and promote further studies.

Like all species, these birds occupy their own specific ecological niche. In saving them
we may just save ourselves as well. For in the great passage of time, nature will
certainly emerge victorious.

References

Beehler, Bruce K., Thane K. Pratt, Dale A. Zimmerman, Birds of New Guinea.

Princeton, N.J., c. 1986, p. 41-42.

Kincaid, Anne L., Michael K. Stoskopf, Passerine Dietary Iron Overload Syndrome.

Zoo biology 6:79-88 (1987).

Kirk, Malcolm, Andrew Strathern, Man as Art. New Guinea Body Decoration,

Thames and Hudson Ltd., London, c. 1981.

Lowenstine, Linda, DVM, Margaret L. Petrack, DVM, Iron Pigment in the Livers
of Birds. Dept, of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of
California at Davis, Davis, CA.

Ranck, Stephen, David King, editor, Vagoli Bovavka, Vagi Ravla, Cartography,

Papua New Guinea Atlas . Robert Brown and Assoc., Pty. Ltd., Bathurst Aus.,
in association with the University of Papua New Guinea, Gordon and Gotch
(P.N.G.) Pty. Ltd., Boroko, Papua New Guinea, 1985.

Risser, Jr., Arthur D., PhD., American Zoo Consortium Papua New Guinea Project.

1985 report and 1986 plan, Ornithology Dept., Zoological Society of San Diego,

San Diego, CA.

Strathern, Andrew and Marily, Self Decorating in Mt. Hagen . Gerald Duckworth and
Company Limited, London W.C.@, c. 1971.

Products mentioned in the text;

Nekton® Lory Nekton U.S.A. Inc.

1905 Tyrone Blvd., North
St. Petersburg, FL 33710

483

Destined for Survival: A Papua New Guinea Expedition. Confd

Acknowledgments

I would like to express my sincere thanks to the following people who made this adventure
possible: Joe Ferrer and the Zoological Society of Florida; Ron Johnson, Curator of Birds,
Carl Burch, Supervisor of Birds; and Scott Citino, Zoo Veterinarian. Also I would like to
thank Steve Duell for his patience and tremendous support. What would I have done
without Carl, Janet Ross, and Trish Haney for their assistance and professional clerical
skills. My thanks to you all!

BATS, BEAUTIFUL BATS

Children's Musical Bat Program)

rrTT T^

Produced and Arranged By

Susan M. Barnard
Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA

Lyrics and Music By
Oliver Claffey and Michael Vallins
Lead Vocals: Gabriele Kraft and
Esther Vermeer
Narration: Bob Bonnell
Harmony: Bob Bonnell & Oliver Claffey
Synthesizer & Guitar: Oliver Claffey
©1987 Claffins Valley Music
Toronto, Canada

Cartoons & Illustrations By

Shelia D. Frazier
© 1987 Shelia D. Frazier
Friends of Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
and

K. Alston Bolton
© 1987 K. Alston Bolton
Friends of Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA

Video By

Julie Phair
Prime Cable
Atlanta, GA

Slides and Script By

Merlin D. Tuttle
© 1984, 1986

Bat Conservation International
Austin, TX

"Barclay'’ Bat Slides By

Art & Models: Ed Thompson
Photography: Bernard Thoeny
©1986

Fernbank Science Center
Atlanta, GA

Photography Processing Bv

Chestnut Colour, Inc.

Atlanta, GA

Other Contributors

Heidi R. Zogg
Milwaukee, WI

Manny V. Rubio
Atlanta, GA

William Wallace
Friends of Zoo Atlanta
Atlanta, GA

R. Howard Hunt

Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA

485

BATS. BEAUTIFUL BATS. Continued

List of Images. Lyrics and Script

Images

(Blank)

1) Program Title (Illustration, Bat Singing)

2) Grey-headed Flying Fox

3) Mariana's Fruit Bat

4) Wahlberg’s Epauletted Bat

(Epomophorus wahlbergi)

Approaching Baobab Flower

5) "Barclay" Bat Flying

6) "Barclay" Bat with Boy

7) Sue and Egore

8) Illustration (Children Running
from Bats)

9) Gambian Epauletted Bats
(Mother and Baby)

10) Young Gambian Epauletted Fruit Bat

(Epornophoms gambianus)

1 1) Hammer -headed Bat

(Hysignathus monstrosus)

Getting Rose Apple (Eugenia jambos)

12) Illustration (Bat in Woman's Hat)

13) Illustration (Bat at Swimming Pool)

14) Shell Casing Under Roost

15) Jamaican Fruit Bat

(Artibeus jamaicensis)

Approaching Almond

Lyrics and Program Script

(Beat to Musical Introduction)
(Musical Introduction Begins)
Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats.

There's a little creature of the night,

If you see him he might give you a
fright,

But don’t be scared, he won't do you
any harm.

Bats are quite gentle so leave them
alone,

The truth about them isn't widely
known,

This furry little animal is always
put down,

Most people don't want them
hanging around.

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, bats, Beautiful Bats.

I hear a lot of stories that are so
unfair,

There's one that says bats get caught
up in your hair,

Have you ever met anyone who's had
such a scare? Not me! Have you?

Bats have been accused for centuries
of attacking people and spreading
disease;

Superstition, prejudice and greed

Are destroying an animal that we all
need.

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

486

BATS . BEAUTIFUL BATS. Continued

Images

16) Red Bat (Lasiurus borealis)

17) Mother Gambian Epauletted Fruit Bat

(Epomophorus gambionus) and young.

18) Hunters Preparing Dawn Bats

19) Straw-colored Flying Fox

20) Choeronucteris me xicana

21) Dobson's Horseshoe Bat

(Rhinolophus yunanensis)

22) Cleared Land in Africa

23) Panamanian Rain Forest

24) Angolan Fruit Bat

(Lissonycteris angolensis)

Eating Fig

25) D’Orbigny's Round-eared Bat

(Tonatia slyvicola) Carrying Katydid

26) Egore on Sue's Neck

27) Micron terovus nusillusl

Eating Fig (Scene 1)

28) (Microp terovus pu$i l lu$ )

Eating Fig (Scene 2)

29) M iproptero p us pusi llus }

Eating Fig (Scene 3)

30) Great Fruit-eating Bat

(Artibeus literatus)

Pollinating Shaving Brush Flower

(Pseudobombax sp. ?)

31) Jamaican Fruit-eating Bat

(Artibeus jamaicensis)

Pollinating Balsa Flower

32) Wahlberg’s Epauletted Fruit Bat

(Epomophorus wahlbergi)

Approaching Flower

33) Bat in Atlanta Braves Uniform

Lyrics and Program Script

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,
Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats.

If man continues to slaughter at will,
Their populations will decline until
It's too late; there'll be no bats
Anymore.

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats.

Forests and orchards might not
survive

Without our little friends up in the
skies,

Mother Nature's planters are hunters
too.

Certain bats love to eat fruit.

They drop the seeds and the seeds
take root,

They eat millions of insects, they're
really quite good;

They won't bite your neck and suck
all your blood.

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats.

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

I'm going to tell you about bats.
Not baseball bats -

487

BATS . BEAUTIFUL BATS . Continued

Images

34) Indian Flying Fox

(Pteropus giganticus)

35) Tome's Long-eared Bat

(Lonchorhina aurita)

Perched

36) Red Bat (Lasiurus borealis)

37) Tadarida chapjni with crest up

With Epaulettes Up

40) Ep omo p hq ru s wahlberqi

With Full Cheek Pouches

41) Antrozous nallidus

42) Rhinonoma hardwickei in Flight

43) Craseonucteris thonalonauai

(Hand Held)

44) Ptronus FuFet /Buddhist Monk

45) Pterorms lulei Backlit in Flight

46) Lavia frons in Flight

47) Lasionucteris noctivaaans Perched

48) Baby Gray Bats

49) Tj brasiliensis Mother and Baby

50) Cardioderma cor after Beetle

51) Illustration (Bat Zapping Mosquito)

52) Antrozous oallidus Eating Scorpion

53) Tractions cirrhosus Catching Frog

Lyrics and Program Script

These bats are animals!

There are many different bats. More
than 10, more than 100, more
than 500.

There are almost 1,000 kinds of bats,
and that's a lot!

Some bats have hair that stands up
on their heads like a mohawk!

Some have big eyes, and

Some have tiny eyes.
Some make funny faces.

Others have rabbit ears.

This one has a tail like a mouse,

But he's not a mouse; he's a bat!

This is a very little bat. He weighs
less that a penny.

This is a very big bat. His wings
stretch out more than three feet.

The bones in bats’ wings look like
long fingers.

This bat has beautiful yellow wings,
but he is not a bird. He does not
have feathers.

Bats are mammals. All mammals
have hair or fur. You have hair.

Bats have soft, silky fur.

Mammals give birth to live babies.
They do not lay eggs.

Most mother bats have just one baby
hi a year. Baby bats feed on their
mother's milk.

When bats grow up they eat different
things. Some bats eat bugs.

They even help us by eating
mosquitos. That means there are
less mosquitos to bite you.

Some bats eat scorpions. Scorpions
can sting, but they can't hurt the bat.

Some bats eat frogs, and

488

BATS. BEAUTIFUL BATS. Continued
Images

54) Noctilio lenorinus Fishing

55) Desmondus rotundus at Zoo

56) Children Watching Vampires

57) Illustration (Bat and Annoyed Cow)

58) Glosanhaaa soricina at Tricanthera

59) Greater Short-nosed Fruit Bat

(Cynopterus sphinx)

Pollinating Wild Bananas

60) Epomophoms gmnMows

Removing Fig

61) Artibeus iamaicensis

Flying with Fruit

62) Rain Forest

63) Bat-derived Products

64) Lyle’s Flying Fox

(Pteropus lylei) Perched

65) Peter's Ghost-faced Bat

66) Indiana Bat (Myotis sodalis)

67) Hibernating Gray Bats

(Myotis grisescens)

68) Roosting Lyle’s Flying Foxes

69) Mine /Snow Photo.

70) Illustration (Bat Going on Vacation)

Lyrics and Program Script

Some bats catch fish and eat them.

Other bats feed on blood. They are
called vampires. You may have
heard of vampires, but I bet you
didn't hear the truth.

In the United States, blood-eating
bats live only in zoos. They cannot
fly down and bite your neck.

Spooky Dracula stories just aren't
real.

Vampires mostly worry farm
animals in Latin America.

Many bats feed on juice from
flowers. These bats are very
important like hummingbirds.

Do you like bananas? In some places
bananas could not grow without
bats.

Bats that feed on juice from flowers
also may eat fruit from trees. They
don't like to eat the seeds, though.

They get rid of the seeds as they fly.

The seeds drop on the ground and
make new trees grow. Fruit-eating
bats help many new trees grow.

Bats help give us many things like
bananas and many other fruits,
balsa wood for toy airplanes and
carob for candy.

It is a good thing the world has bats.
There are bats in Africa and Asia,

South America and Central America,

The United States and Europe and
many more places.

Some live in caves, and

Some live in trees.

In places with cold, snowy winters,
bats must

Travel many miles to find warmer
weather.

489

BATS. BEAUTIFUL BATS. Continued

Images

71) Bats at Cave Entrance

72) Sue/Egore Flying

73) Illustration (Child Opening a Window)

74) Plugging Hole

75) Gambian Epuletted Bats

(Mother & Baby)

76) Illustration (Bat and Child)

77) Illustration (Bat Being Held in Hand)

78) Halloweeners

79) Little Girl Looking at

"Barclay" Bat

80) Lyle's Flying Foxes at Dawn

81) "Barclay" Bat sleeping

82) Giant Leaf-nosed Bat

(Hipposideros commersoni)

83) Illustration (Sounds Out)

84) Illustration (Echo Back)

85) "Barclay 4 ' Bat in Cave

Lyrics and Program Script

Other bats must find safe places to
spend the winter-places where they
can hide from people and not be
bothered. They move to winter
caves. They sleep all winter and
wait for spring.

One day you might get to see a bat
in your house or school. You don't
have to be afraid. If you leave it
alone, it won't hurt you.

Watch where the bat goes! Open a
window and let it out.

It probably came in through a little
hole. Adults can plug the hole to
keep more bats from visiting.

Bats are wild animals, and wild
animals like to be left alone.

They are not pets like your dog or
cat or hamster.

They do not want you to pick them
up. If you pick up a bat, it might
get scared and bite you.

Bats think that we are scary!

If you want to be a bat's friend,
just leave him alone. You may
watch bats and that's fun, but
don't touch!

The best time to watch bats is at
night. Bats are night workers.

They sleep and rest during the day.

Many bats have a special way of

finding the way in the dark. They
use their funny faces to see with
sound.

These bats send out sounds from
their mouth or nose. The sounds
travel through the air until they
hit something, like an insect or
a tree.

Then the sounds bounce back to
the bat as echoes. He listens to
the echoes and can tell where to
find insects for his dinner. He can
see everything just by hearing his
echoes.

Some bats use only their eyes to see.

490

BATS. BEAUTIFUL BATS . Continued

Imag es

86) Plecotus

87) Baby Grey-headed Flying Fox

88) M icr my c SM s mceforj Carrying
Katydid

89) African Long-tongued Bat

(Megalogossus woermanni ')

90) Hoary Bat Perching

91) Illustration (Echo Location)

92) Enamcms

93) Dawn Bat (Eonycteris spelaea)

Approaching Baobab Flower

94) Angolan Fruit Bat

(Lissonycteris angolensis)

95) Small Group of Straw-colored
f lying Foxes

96) Egyptian Rousette Bat

(Rousettus aegyptiacus)

Ea ting Mango

97) Lasiurus borealis in Flight

98) Merlin Feeding Bat

99) Girl with "Barclay' Bat

100) Straw-colored Flying Fox
Eating Guava

101) Free-tail Bat Emergence

102) Credit Slide -

Bat Conservation International

Lyrics and Program Script

Some bats use their eyes and their
echoes.

Bats are very special animals.

They're helpful. They're gentle.
They are our friends. Many people
don’t know that. They think bats
are bad. You're lucky! You know a
lot about bats. You have learned
things that many grown-up people
don’t know. You know that there
are almost 1,000 kinds.

You know that bats help us by
catching insects.

You know the world needs bats to
help new trees and flowers to grow,

And you know bats are wild animals
that like to be left alone.

You know that some bats use echoes
to find their way in the dark,

And, you also know that all bats use
their eyes and can see very well, and
no bats are blind.

There are many wonderful things in
the world to learn about, and one of
them is bats.

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats.

There's a little creature of the night,

If you see him he might give you a
fright,

But don’t be scared, he won't do you
any harm.

Certain bats love to eat fruit,

They drop the seeds and the seeds
take root,

They eat millions of insects, they're
really quite good; they won't bite
your neck and suck all your blood.

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

491

BATS. BEAUTIFUL BATS. Continued

Images

103) Credit Slide -

Fembank Science Center

104) Credit Slide -

Frazier & Bolton

105) Credit Slide -

Chestnut Colour, Inc.

106) ) Credit Slide -

Julie Phair

107) Credit Slide -

Claffins Valley Music

108) Credit Slide -

Susan Barnard

Lyrics and Program Script

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats.

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats,

Bats, Bats, Beautiful Bats.

BATS!

c

492

Snow Leopard (Panthera uniea) Breeding
and Births at the Bronx Zoo's
Himilayan Highlands

sy

Martin W. Zybura and Anthony P. Brownie
Keepers , Bronx Zoo, Bronx, New York

The breeding and births described here are the first to take place for snow leopards
(. Panthera unica) at the Himilayan Highlands complex. Previous snow leopard
breedings and births took place at the zoo's Lion House.

The animals were bred as follows. The male Bisser (Bronx Zoo accession #851218,
studbook # Moscow 6) and female Olga (accession # 781140, studbook # Seattle 10) were
put together for breeding beginning 3 February 1987 and ending 18 March 1987. The male
Lama (accession # 811154, studbook # Bronx 34) and female Hoth (accession # 801365,
studbook # Rochester 7) were put together beginning 11 February 1987 and ending 4 March
1987. No interest in breeding was shown by this pair. Hoth and another male in a nearby
holding cage, Kahn (accession # 751822, studbook # LPZ 17), began to notice each other
and the staff decided to replace Lama with Kahn. Kahn and Hoth were then put together
for breeding beginning 5 March 1987 and ending 18 March 1987.

This was the first time Hoth was successfully bred. An attempt at breeding Bisser and
Hoth failed in 1986. That same year, two unsuccessful artificial insemination attempts
were made on her using sperm from Bisser. Olga had been successfully bred in the past
at the zoo by three other males, yielding a total of six cubs. Kahn was an experienced
breeder, having successfully bred two other females at the zoo yielding a total of 12 cubs.
Lama had no prior breeding experience. Bisser, from Moscow, brings a new bloodline to
North America. This is his first successful breeding here.

Bisser and Olga were housed side by side, each in a maternity cage. Hoth and Lama, who
was later replaced by Kahn, were similarly placed side by side, each in a holding cage.
Dimensions of the cages and their dens were described by Brownie and Thomas, 1987 1 .

To introduce the animals to each other prior to making breeding attempts, an introduction
screen made of heavy box wire was placed over the opening of the partition door between
the adjacent cages. The cats could have contact through the screen by sight, smell, and
limited touching. This was done for several days before the first breeding attempt. To
place a pair together for breeding, each animal was locked out of its den and the partition
door was opened between the two cages. This allowed each animal access to the other’s
cage and eliminated the possibility of an animal being cornered or out of view inside the
den. A keeper was present at all times whenever the cats were placed together. Breeding
time periods varied, but were usually from 25 minutes to two hours in length, with one to
three periods (usually two) per day. The length and number of breeding time periods each
day were determined by the cats' interest in breeding and the keepers' schedule, although
efforts were made to be as consistent as possible.

The breeding data was taken directly from the daily keepers' reports. For each pair the
data has been compiled into a chart showing the date, the total time together per day, the
number of times copulation took place for the day, and the average copulations per hour for
the entire day. Breeding attempts were considered successful when the mounts ended in
vocalizations from the male. Graphs are included showing the date vs the number of
copulations per hour for that day, and the date vs the average number of copulations per
hour for that day, in an effort to show the breeding pattern of each pair. The latter graph is
included in an effort to eliminate or suppress the time variable, since times together each
day were not always the same. The chart includes all days from the first attempt to breed
to the last. To simplify the graphs, they include only the day when the cats actually
copulated.

493

Snow Leopard Breeding and Births at the Bronx Zoo’s

Himilavan Highlands. Continued

1987 Breeding Attempts of Bisser and Olga

Date

time together
per day

# of times
copulated

average copulations
per hour for the
entire day

3 Feb

40

0

0

4

20

0

0

5

30

0

0

6

135

0

0

7

180

0

0

8

80

0

0

9

60

0

0

10

120

0

0

11

120

0

0

12

IP*

0

0

13

u

0

0

14

u

0

0

15

u

0

0

IB

u

0

0

17

u

0

0

18

u

0

0

19

u

0

0

20

u

0

0

21

90

0

0

22

180

0

0

23

60

0

0

24

u

0

0

25

90

0

0

26

150

0

0

27

120

0

0

28

60

0

0

1 March

0

0

0

2

120

0

0

3

135

15

7

4

110

31

17

5

90

12

8

6

115

26

14

7

U

16

NA

8

120

6

3

9

60

0

0

10

60

0

0

11

0

0

0

12

0

0

0

13

0

0

0

14

0

0

0

15

u

0

0

16

60

0

0

17

60

0

0

18

15

0

0

a: U = together for an unspecified time

494

Snow Leopard Breeding and Births at the Bronx Zoo’s

Himilavan Highlands, Continued

1987 Breeding Attempts of Hoth and Lama or Kahn a

Date

time together
per day

# of times
copulated

average copulations
per hour for the
entire day

11 Feb

IP

0

0

12

U

0

0

13

o

0

0

14

u

0

0

15

u

0

0

16

u

0

0

17

u

0

0

18

u

0

0

19

u

0

0

20

u

0

0

21

o

0

0

22

180

0

0

23

60

0

0

2 1

O

0

0

25

160

0

0

26

90

0

0

27

60

0

0

28

O

0

0

1 March

o

0

0

2

o

0

0

3

120

0

0

4

O

0

0

5

60

6

6

6

55

3

3

7

U

2

NA

8

120

2

1

9

150

1

0.4

10

60

0

0

11

O

0

0

12

o

0

0

13

o

0

0

14

o

0

0

15

u

0

0

16

60

0

0

17

60

0

0

18

O

0

0

a: Hoth was placed with Lama 11 February through 4 March then with
Kahn 5 March through 18 March.

b: U = together for an unspecified time

495

Average # of Copulations 0 f Copulations

Snow Leopard Breeding and Births at the Bronx Zoo’s

Himilavan Highlands. Continued

Graph 1: Date vs number of copulations per day.

35 Bisser and Olga

— Kahn and Doth

30

25

Graph 2: Date vs average copulations per hour for the day.

496

Snow Leonard Breeding and Births at the Bronx Zoo’s

Himilavan Highlands. Continued

The patterns of Graph 1 and Graph 2 seem to be similar but the first graph shows more
extreme changes. On both graphs, Bisser and Olga had consistently higher numerical
values than Kahn and Hoth. Kahn and Hoth begin with a high value and gradually taper
off. Bisser and Olga start with a rise between the third and fourth of March, fall sharply
on the fifth, are back up on the sixth and gradually taper off. These figures best illustrate
that although breeding took place during the same time of the year and month for both
pairs, the numbers and patterns of actual copulations were very different.

Once bred, on 10 April 1987, Olga and Hoth were moved into the cubbing dens in the
maternity area. Olga was placed in M3 and Hoth in M4. During the third week of May
cubbing boxes were placed in each maternity den. Each box measured five foot square
and was raised on a slight slope. Both cats marked their boxes by urinating on them.

On 3 June, video cameras were installed, one in M3 and one in M4. A video monitor
(Panasonic®WV5470), VCR (Panasonic® AG60105) and a Quad System® unit (WJ400)
were connected to the cameras. The Quad System® unit allowed the screen to be split
making simultaneously viewing of both dens possible. Red fluorescent lights were
installed in the dens and constant recording of both cats began.

On 9 June, Olga gave birth to two female cubs. This birth is not on video tape.
Unfortunately, the system automatically shut down due to a power surge. On 10 June at
8:57 a.m., Hoth became very restless, moving around and scratching a lot. At 9:47 a.m.
she went into the cubbing den and laid down. She continued to scratch and began licking
her hind end. Her first cub was born at 9:53 a.m. She licked and cleaned the cub for 40
minutes. The cub then nursed for two hours. Overall, Hoth appeared to be a bit rough with
the cub. At 12:20 p.m. she began scratching and licking again. At 12:30 p.m. the second
cub was born.

Food was presented twice a day. However, neither Olga nor Hoth would eat for two days
after giving birth. The feed consisted of two pounds of Nebraska Brand® Frozen Feline
Diet mixed with one tablespoon of calcium lactate, one tablespoon of Vitamycin®, and
one can of KMR®.

On 13 June one of Hoth's cubs did not appear to be moving. After a couple of hours, the
veterinarian and staff decided to pull the cub. Hoth was shifted out of the den and the cub
was removed. It was dead. A necropsy revealed fluid in the lungs and trauma to the head
and neck. Upon reviewing the video tape, it was found that earlier in the day, 10:17 a.m.,
Hoth may have rolled over on the cub which had crawled over her back. The dead cub was
a female and the remaining cub was a male. The male cub was weighed for the first time
on 13 June. At this time it was noted that the cub’s right eye was infected. Medication of
the eye with Chloromycetin® ointment began. On 18 June the medication was switched to
Neo-Prep®, twice daily. The eye was completely cleared by 8 July and treatment stopped.
The first weights were taken on Olga's cubs on 23 June. Weights for all three cubs can be
seen on Graph 3. The cubs’ eyes were first noticed open on 18 June.

Olga's cubs were first seen coming out of the den on 16 July. On 9 August the cubs were
first seen eating solid food. First innoculations were given on 13 August.

Preparations began to introduce Olga and her cubs into the "cave" exhibit by soaping the
glass and checking for possible hazards. On 16 August, Olga and her cubs were given
access to another maternity cage, Ml, which leads to the exhibit. When the shift was
opened they went directly into Ml and spent about one hour exploring it. When they
returned to M3 they were locked in for the night. The next morning they were
permanently moved to Ml. On 19 August they were given access to the exhibit for about
two and a half hours. Olga went immediately into the exhibit, walked around scratching
and marking, returned to Ml and walked with the cubs back into the exhibit. The group
continued to be given access to the exhibit for the next five days. After this the group was
locked in the exhibit during the day, returning to Ml at night. There were no problems
shifting these animals.

497

Graph 3: Cub Weights

Snow Leopard Breeding and Births at the Bronx Zoo’s

Himilavan Highlands. Continued

498

Snow Leopard Breeding and Births at the Bronx Zoo's

Himilavan Highlands. Continued

Data Base for Graph 3:

Weight of Cubs (grams)

Date (1987)

Hoth's Male

Olga's Shaved
Female 3

Olga's Unshaved
Female

13 June

429

15

481

17

530

19

587

23

720

1035

1020

21

750

25

770

27

832

1210

1154

28

849

29

890

1 July

948

20

1636

22

2017

1883

4 August

1929

a: For identification, one of Olga's cubs had a small patch of fur shaved
from one leg.

The cubs were given their final innoculations on 29 August and 26 September. Olga and
Hoth both remain very calm when separated from their cubs (for weights, examinations,
etc.). Hoth tends to be more aggressive towards keepers at all times.

The use of the new Himilayan Highlands facilities has proven successful for breeding,
births, and exhibition of snow leopard adults and cubs.

References

1. Brownie, A. and Thomas, P. (1987). The Himilayan Highlands: A New Snow Leopard
Exhibit at the New York Zoological Park. In The AAZPA Regional Conference
Proceedings.

499

AUSTRALASIA...

A Learning Experience

By

Judie Steenberg, Unit Keeper
Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle, WA

Australasia...what is it, and where is it?

According to Webster, Australasia "...includes Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania,
New Guinea, the Malay archipelago and all islands south of the equator between E.
longitudes 100' and 180." Between them, these islands form one of the major areas of
zoologic, botanic and geographic interest.

At Woodland Park Zoological Gardens, the Australasian Unit is located in the northeast
corner of the zoo. The Unit consists of five large planted exhibits and one large, bedded
viewing room. In addition to the two outdoor holding pens, the two off-exhibit holding
rooms, as many as six small holding rooms, from 4 ft. x 6ft. (1.2 m x 1.8 m) to 6 ft. x 10 ft.
(1.8 m x 3.0 m) can be set up by closing various doors or gates. These small, temporary
holding areas are essential for separating wallaroo out without upsetting the whole mob,
for temporary holding areas and winter shelter for some of the waterfowl during extended
winter conditions (snow/freezing ponds), which do occur in Seattle.

In September of 1981, 1 transferred to the Australasian Unit. Despite having been a keeper
for six years, I was confronted with a group of animals that I had absolutely NO
EXPERIENCE with. ..and so began a long-term learning process.

The current collection in the Australasian Unit consists of:

3.10 Wallaroo ( Macropus robustus)

1.2 Matschie's tree Kangaroo ( Dendrolagus matschiei ) both females have
pouch young

2.5 Long-nosed potoroo ( Potorous apicaiis)

1.1 Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae )

1.1 Black swan (Cygnus atratus)

1.1 Cereopsis geese ( Cereopsis novaehollandiae )

1.1 Paradise shelduck ( Tadorna variegata )

1.1 Radjah shelduck ( Tadorna radiah )

1.1 Violet-necked lories ( Eos squamata)

2.0 Edward's lories (Tridactylus haematodus capistratus )

3.5.1 Gouldian finch ( Chloebia gouldiae)

3.4 Zebra finch ( Poephila guttata)

And, four years ago we had New Guinea water dragons ( Physignathus cocincinus) in the
tree kangaroo exhibit.

In addition to learning about managing the animals in the Unit, there has been a
continual need to learn about:

-the use of live plants in animals exhibits.

-exhibit design and modification.

-documenting behavior and extensive recording keeping.

-the complexities of mixed-species exhibits

-working with students and volunteers in various capacities.

-dealing with an uninformed and/or misinformed public.

-the need to stay current with the literature.

-a renewed appreciation of the importance of sharing experiences and
knowledge with others.

500

Australasia... A Learning Experience. Continued

Following are a few examples of things that were learned over the years.

The waterfowl are wonderfully vocal and "morning check" actually starts when I get out
of the car, some 140 ft. (42.7 m) from the first yard of the Unit. Each bird has its own call,
and can actually be counted; the geese call first, then the swans and shelducks. The only
break in the calling sequence is during nesting season. ..OR.. .if there is a raptor in the
vicinity.

Reproduction

We do not do routine pouch checks on the wallaroo, but based on the shape of the muzzle
(blunt on male and pointed on female) we have correctly sexed 12 out of the last 13 joeys as
soon as we saw their heads. Morning check is also when the wallaroo joeys are usually
seen poking their heads out, or leaving the pouch for the first time. The sex of the joey is
easily confirmed when it leaves the pouch if it can be seen from the front: the pouch is
evident on the females and the male genitalia is rather easily seen also.

Color has also been an indicator of sex on the last 6-7 wallaroo joeys, which stayed in the
pouch longer than usual. The males were turning dark charcoal grey quite some time
before leaving the pouch. ..the dark color first appeared under the eyes.

It is theorized that the reason the last 6-7 joeys did stay in the pouch much longer than usual
is due to the dam not having an embryo in delayed implantation.

Our adult male wallaroo sired 20 offspring (12.7.1) from August 1983 when he was
introduced to eight open females, through March 1986. Eighteen of the 20 joeys survived
with an 11.7 ratio. All but one of the males have been shipped to other zoos in North
America. Of the seven females that survived, four were shipped and three remain in the
collection.

Due to poor health over the last few years, such as not maintaining good body weight
during the winter months, and decaying teeth (which were removed with no subsequent
jaw problems such as lumpy jaw), the adult male wallaroo was neutered in March of 1986.
Vasectomy was chosen due to reports of wallaroo losing muscle tone in the forequarters
when castrated. It was felt that this male was well represented in the wallaroo population
in North America, and a new male was on its way from Australia. The new male arrived
in August of 1986 but was only a juvenile and nowhere near old enough to repreoduce...we
had not anticipated the problem of having "open" females continuously cycling. The old
male has followed and/or copulated with a female on a regular basis since he was
neutered. He did not gain his usual summer weight, despite good appetite and periodic
separation from the mob.

Another over-reproduction problem was dealt with by separating the male and female
potoroo. Other than an occasional patch of missing hair mid-back, and a little chasing,
everything seemed to go along quite smoothly with the three males. Each had his own
feeding station, and the planted exhibit allowed for a variety of hiding and nesting areas.
(Male potoroo do build nests contrary to some literature.)

After the trio had been together about six months, the youngest and smallest male was
bitten and half-castrated by one of the other males. We checked the other two males
immediately and found that the largest and oldest male had only one testicle and a healed
wound on his scrotum. When discussing this problem with other keepers at the zoo, who
had kept an all-male group of potoroo about 4-5 years prior to this, it was learned that this
had occurred on one male previously.

A third reproductive problem occurred with the tree kangaroos. We attempted to keep
them in a social situation in various combinations (1.3, 1.2, 1.1 and 0.2 separated but in
strange, unsuitable surroundings) with repeated loss of the joeys. The first time we gave a
female her "own" space, where she gave birth and was basically undisturbed, she raised a

501

Australasia... A Learning Experience. Continued

healthy male joey despite having a serious lung problem which required twice daily
injections for 14 days, oral antibiotics and general anesthesia and radiographs on two
occasions.

We currently have two female tree 'roos on exhibit, with a dividing electrified fence
separating them. They are both carrying joeys; as of 1 Nov. '87, one joey is venturing out
of the pouch and the other is regularly sticking its head out. This is the first time the
second female has carried a joey this far.

Tree Kangaroos are not as social as other species of macropods and females with joeys
should be kept separate from other tree 'roos. There are exceptions, but there is substantial
evidence from the collections at Front Royal Conservation and Research Center and the
Woodland Park Zoological Gardens that the joey is very much at risk in social
groupings.

Reproduction in the bird collection has primarily centered around the waterfowl. The
black swans, first a mother/son pair, and the current pair (suspected to be siblings) have
faithfully built nests, displayed strong bonding behavior, eggs have been laid and
properly incubated. ..and they have ALL been infertile. In 1986 the current pair incubated
six clutches (a total of 33 eggs) despite diet change and separating the birds for awhile. All
efforts to slow her down have failed.

The radjah shelducks have hatched and reared a clutch in the exhibit with the black
swans. Despite our concern and precautions to protect the shelducks from the swans with a
"special" fence, the ducklings repeatedly found their way to the swan side, often by diving
under the separating fence. The swans never harassed them despite the fact that we have
seen the swans chasing mallards and have found dead, mutilated mallard ducklings on
several occasions in the swan pond.

The paradise shelduck's eggs were pulled for artificial incubation, but pound for pound
the male paradise would have bested any intruder. He even took on a wombat that
ventured too close to the area the shelducks wanted to nest in. Although the shelduck
sustained bloodied wings "beating" on the wombat, the wombat actually had a bite mark
and bumps on its nose and face.

The BOOK said cereopsis geese can abandon eggs if disturbed... and that the female is
more aggressive than the male. Well, our female is a pussycat compared to the male. She
makes a half-hearted "rush" at the moat, while he gives you ALL HE HAS. In addition to
biting and beating with his wings, he has injured keepers with the long claws on his feet.

The first clutch of five eggs laid by the cereopsis geese were in an off-exhibit "quiet" area,
and all personnel were advised to minimize activity in that vicinity. All five eggs
hatched and all goslings survived. One of the hazards for young waterfowl in Seattle is
the presence of crows and gulls. They flew over, congregated and vocalized when the
goslings hatched but never ventured anywhere near the goose yard. The adult geese
repeteadly turned their heads sideways and looked skyward, obviously aware of the
threat.

The second and third year clutches were laid in the exhibit yard and 10 out of 11 eggs
hatched with %100 survival of the goslings. Was the paranoia of the first year warranted?
Did a successful experience insure two subsequent successful hatches?

During the first clutch, there was an occasion when miscommunication and the arrival of
a TV crew caused the female to leave the nest and the eggs were uncovered during cold
January temperatures. I was pretty excited when I found out what was happening and was
quite vocal about the situation to the TV crew and two supervisors.. .on the spot. They
listened.. .and left.. .and the goose eventually returned to the nest. I'll never know is
"speaking out" really made a difference; maybe she would have returned to the nest with
them there. ..maybe not. But, I learned that I'd rather take a chance and speak out on

502

Australasia... A Learning Experience. Continued

behalf of the animals than risk their welfare. A short while later the Curator involved
called to check on the geese and apologize for the miscommunication. She was not aware
of the situation and was very supportive when it was explained. ..we all came out winners.

Still another lesson regarding reproduction came from a pair of Edward's lories. 3.1
Edward's lories were introduced into the tree kangaroo exhibit shortly after the tree 'roos
had been introduced. A pair was established and it became necessary to remove the two
additional male lories due to aggression toward them.

A nestbox was put into the exhibit well away from the tree 'roos, and one chick hatched out
of the two eggs laid. Within a few days serious problems developed as the adult lories
became increasingly dominant of the upper levels of the trees and literally drove the tree
'roos to the ground. The birds would sit on the heads of the tree 'roos and bite at the ears.
The adult lories, nestbox and young were removed from the exhibit ASAP while the tree
'roos lived on the ground for a few days.

The lories obviously recognized the threat of the tree 'roos toward their chick. A few
months later we lost a nicobar pigeon to predation by a tree 'roo. Still later we learned that
tree 'roos eat birds and eggs as part of their normal diet in the wild (Drake, 1984). Over the
years, other reports were:

-swamp hens killed by tree 'roos at Baiyer River Sanctuary (MacKay, 1984)

-a cereopsis goose was killed by tree 'roos at an Australian zoo (Thompson, 1984)

-a kookaburra was caught in mid-flight and killed in Topeka by their male
tree 'roo (Dinsmore, 1987)

Exhibits

Lories have also been a lesson in exhibiting them with plants. Black-capped ( Eos
cyanogenia) and violet-necked have done very little damage to tropical plants.
Unattached male Edward's lories have done considerable damage. A favorite plant is the
Norfolk Island pine ( Araucaria excelsa ) : they break off the branchlets and drop them,
watching as they fall to the ground. Two things have been successful in stopping this
behavior. Giving succulent browse, especially in the spring, and treating plants with
ROPEL®, a non-toxic benzyldiethyl, ammonium-sccaharide based animal repellent,
have both worked.

Special feeding procedures is one of the secrets to having plants in exhibits containing
herbivores.

-the potoroo are given turf and clumps of grass to take the pressure off the
tropical plants.

-the emu are fed romaine twice daily to keep them from eating too much
escallonia.

-wallaroo are fed a mixture of 50% alfalfa and 50% grass hay daily to keep the
yard from being overgrazed.

Tree 'roos actually leave small edible tropical plants alone if they receive sufficient
browse on a daily basis. This needs much more testing and we have only used plants that
can't be "climbed".

Through years of trial and error, observations and note-taking, and limiting the number
of animals in the large outdoor yards, we have succeeded in keeping live plants growing
in four exhibits in which the animals have access to the plants at all times.

Animal Health

When the potoroo and tree 'roo exhibits were filled with sand we were concerned about
problems with disinfecting and parasites. But, by removing soiled sand with the feces

503

Australasia... A Learning Experience. Continued

and urine spots, parasites have not been a problem over the past five years. Potoroo are
occasionally treated for low levels of parasites and the tree'roos have only needed
treatment once. The tree 'roos are frequently on the sand at night.

Several years ago the whole wallaroo mob had to be treated for parasites. By changing to
feeding out of containers, and spacing feed pans at an appropriate distance from each
other, the parasite problem has been eliminated and ear-biting at feeding time has
stopped.

Wallaroo and tree'roos have both responded BADLY to oral ampicillin medication. Loss
of appetite and loose stools occurred in two wallaroo and one tree'roo. Cefadroxil®,
administered orally to the same tree 'roo resulted in black liquid feces and the passing of
bloody mucous, within a short time of administering the medication. On the other hand,
Sulfratrim® (trimethoprim sulfadiazine) has proven to be successful oral medication in
tree ’roos. All antibiotics that have been administered either IM (intramuscular), or Sub-
Q (subcutaneously) resulted in good success.

Two wallaroo have had decayed teeth removed and any attendant infection responded
well to injectable antibiotics. These were not typical "lumpy jaw" situations. The
organism causing lumpy jaw was not found.

"It's throwing up!. ...is often heard from the public when the wallaroo, potoroo and tree 'roo
regurgitate, as part of the digestive process. The wallaroo and tree 'roo hold the
regurgitated material in the back of the mouth where it is resalivated and reswallowed.
The potoroo reingest the vomitus. All three species display typical retching behavior prior
to regurgitation.

Did you know that the emu has a rather long claw at the end of its wing? It works quite
well as a site for a quick blood sample by nipping the nail short.

Diet Notes

Feeding "special" food items is a key factor in monitoring the condition of many of the
animals. At a.m. feeding, the wallaroos are hand-fed wheat bread slices and the tree
'roos are hand-fed sweet potato, for which they readily come down. This also puts them in
a position where they can be easily caught if necessary.

The feeding of clumps, turf and browse on a regular basis provides occupation for the
animals and creates a more active exhibit for the visitor. It takes time to provide these
items (collecting, washing, sorting, removing uneaten portions), but the benefits are well
worth it.

Corn-on-the-cob was recommended as a diet item for the tree 'roos, but it is only available
fresh in the Seattle area for a short while and frozen cobs are expensive. We purchase a
year's supply at harvest time and freeze it in the husk in freezer bags; the quality remains
high throughout the year. It is an excellent indicator food... if the tree 'roos refuse it, there
IS a reason. It also serves as a good vehicle for oral medication for the tree 'roo or potoroo.

Records

Accurate records are essential to doing the job well. We use a daybook to keep each other
informed. A well-informed relief keeper can make your week go so much better. I think
both the regular and relief keepers have a responsibility to "keep each other informed", but
I also feel there is more of a responsibility on the regular keeper's part to maintain
communications and records.

Continuity is essential to good animal management. Having a capable, interested, well-
trained relief keeper makes all of the difference in your attitude and how well you can
keep a Unit running. Records and notebooks provide an important link in the process.

504

Australasia,., A Learning Experience. Continued

We also have the help of several volunteers in the Australasian Unit. Pam Talbot
compiles a monthly report; Brian Williams helps with the files and records; Dee Sliney
works on research projects and the data sheets for tree kangaroos; Judy Taylor helps as a
Keeper Aide doing some pretty grubby, non-animal work just for the opportunity to work
in the Unit; Anne Burnham puts in approximately four hours a week on plant care; and
Lisa Dabek, a graduate student, is working on a dam/offspring interaction study on the
two female tree 'roos.

Most keepers feel their Unit is the "best" place to work, and I’m no exception. Over the
years I've had the opportunity to work with a variety of Australasian animals, have had
planted and mixed-species exhibits to learn about, and have learned about unique
adaptations, interesting vocalizations and behaviors. It has been a continuous learning
experience.

It's hard to imagine that one could ever learn all there is to know about zoo animals.
While there have been many advancements in the captive management of wild animals
over the past 15-20 years, the challenges of the future will demand even more of us as zoo
keepers. Stay current, stay flexible, and stay involved; find your niche and contribute.

References

Dinsmore, Craig, (1987) (personal communication)

Drake, Bev, (1984) "Response", Thvlacinus : 9:3,15.
MacKay, Margaret (1984) (personal communication)
Thomspon, Gregg, (1984) (personal communication)

505

Breeding and Management of Tiger Quolls

[Dasyurus macylatiLsl in Captivity

By

Kevin Conway
National Zoological Park
Conservation 8l Research Center
Front Royal , VA 22630

Abstract

The Conservation and Research Center of the National Zoological Park received 2.2
Tiger Quolls ( Dasvurus maculatus ) from the Tasmania National Parks and Wildlife
Service on 27 January, 1984. All four animals were wild-caught in a mixed wet
sclerophyll rainforest. The Tiger Quoll holds the distinction of being the largest
marsupial carnivore on the Australian mainland; however its status is now rare to
uncommon throughout its Australian range. While Tiger Quolls have previously been
maintained in the United States (Collins, 1975), only NZP/CRC currently maintains and
breeds this species successfully in their collection, and is the only institution to
successfully breed this species outside of Australia.

The new Small Animal Facility Mammal wing is the home for the Tiger Quolls. The
first breeding season at CRC began in October of 1984 and our first births were recorded in
March of 1985. Subsequent births have occurred in 1986 and 1987 with the population now
standing at eleven animals. Tiger Quolls have a short lifespan, surviving on the
average 3 to 5 years in captivity. Of the original four Tiger Quolls, only one male
remains in the collection. Females become reproductively mature at the age of 12 months
and litter sizes have averaged two joeys per litter at CRC.

Introduction

The Tiger Quoll is the largest marsupial carnivore in Australia. In the family
Dasyuridae, only the Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) is larger than the Quoll
and the devil is restricted to the island of Tasmania. Today, the tiger quoll is an
uncommon to rare animal on the Australian mainland, but is more common in
Tasmania (Mansergh, 1983). While all other quoll species are characterized by spots on
the body, only the tiger quoll has spots on the body and tail. Coat color on the dorsal
surface is dark brown with the white spot patterning. The ventral surface is creamy
yellow in color. Sexual dimorphism is evident in the species with the males averaging a
kilogram or more heavier than the females.

As early as 1800 Australian settlers were observing and describing tiger quolls. The
dense forests and moist rainforests of eastern Australia, on both sides of the Great
Dividing Range, provided suitable habitat for this nocturnal, arboreal species (see Map 1
for historical and present range). While not well documented, several observations raise
the question of the male participating in rearing offspring. This paper will outline
behavioral and reproductive characteristics of the species as observed in a captive setting.
It will provide management suggestions for future displays of this species in other
zoological facilities.

Housing

In 1983 the first facility built for small mammals at Front Royal, the Small Animal
Facility, was completed. Two aspects of this building merit attention: its solar
orientation, and the use of Sunwall® I solar panels running the length of the building to

506

Management and Breeding of Tiger Quolls in Captivity . Cont'd

supply most of its light and heat requirements. The wing consists of 24 outside/inside
cage combinations, twelve to a side, with a central service area. The solar panels run the
length of each twelve-cage section. Humidifiers at each end of the building keep relative
humidity at 55% while the physical plant maintains a temperature of 70° F throughout the
winter. Natural photoperiod is maintained due to the solar panels. Two cage sizes were
selected: a small cage with dimensions 3.1m x 6.2m x 3.4m (10ft wide x 20ft long x lift
high), and a large cage 6.2m x 6.2m x 3.4m (20ft x 20ft x lift). The cage bottom is 61cm
(2ft) below the service area floor, allowing cages to be filled with a layer of drain gravel,
covered by a filter blanket and then topped with an artificial soil mixture of peat moss,
pine bark mulch and soilite gravel.

140 ° 146 °

Figure 1. The Australian distribution of IX maculatus showing recent (post-1974) (pre-
1975) records. From: Mansergh, 1. 1983. The status, distribution and abundance of
Dasvurus maculatus (Tiger Quolls) in Australia, with particular reference to Victoria.

The Aus tr a li a Z QQ l Qg i st , 21(2).

507

Management and Breeding of Tiger Quolls in Captivity . Confd

Each cage contains radiant heat panels which are thermostatically controlled. Shift
doors connect all inside cages and are of weld mesh construction so visual and olfactory
communication between animals can be maintained if desired.

In January of 1984, 2.2 wild-caught tiger quolls arrived at CRC from the Tasmanian
National Parks and Wildlife Service and were placed in cages in the SAF. It was the
objective of NZP staff to successfully breed this species for the first time outside of
Australia (Collins and Conway, 1986). All were individually housed, the males going
into small cages, the females into large cages. The initial arrangement allowed one
male to have females on either side of him, the other male has only one female adjoining
him.

Tiger quolls are reported to inhabit dense, tangled undergrowth of a variety of forest types
along the eastern coast of Australia and the island of Tasmania (Fleay, 1948; Settle, 1978;
Walker, 1985; Mansergh, 19983). Mansergh (1983) reports they are commonly located in
forest areas where mean annual rainfall exceeds 600mm.

At Front Royal each tiger quoll enclosure has been constructed in an effort to duplicate a
natural habitat. Cage decorations, both inside and outside, include brush piles located at
random, piles of bamboo, hollow logs, rock piles, live plants, and logs for climbing.
Straw is routinely added to the enclosure for nesting or bedding purposes. Each outside
enclosure has been seeded with grass and wind-borne seeds of trees and colonizing plants
are allowed to grow. Each inside/outside enclosure contains the artificial soil substrate
mixture mentioned earlier in this section. As frequently as possible the enclosure is
soaked by hose. A variety of nestboxes, hollow tubes, pipes and logs are available to each
pregnant or lactating female and considerable burrowing occurs in each quoll enclosure
for construction of rest and nest areas.

Each quoll enclosure is checked and cleaned by keepers daily. The cleaning routine
consists of food debris and defecation removal, refreshing of water, removal of any feed
pans, and observation of each quoll. On a semi-annual basis the enclosures are
disinfected using a bleach solution after removal of animals.

Diet

In its native habitat, the tiger quoll is an opportunistic feeder. Its predatory nature is
evidenced by the long tapered snout and the long sensitive whisker hairs. The jaws are
quite powerful and the canine teeth are very well developed in the species. Though
observations and fecal analysis it had been determined that wild quolls will prey on
insects, birds and mammals (Mansergh, 1983; Walker, 1983). Through its arboreal
abilities quolls have captured and consumed sugar gliders, roosting fowl, and
feathertails. Walker (1983) reports quolls preying on rodents, wallabies, and rat
kangaroos in Tasmania.

In captivity, information is available on only two diets, from the National Zoological
Park, and from Taronga Zoological Park (Collins, 1973). At NZP is the late 1960's, tiger
quolls received 3-day-old chicks, rat pups, and baby rabbits as available. Otherwise, the
diet consisted of finely ground, lean horsemeat mixed with wheatgerm oil, powdered
milk, Pervinal®, chopped hard boiled egg yolk, and Vi-Daylin®, a multivitamin.

The Taronga Zoo diet alternated between chopped horsemeat fed five times a week and
fish fed twice a week. Raw egg was fed twice a week with the horsemeat.

Since the arrival of the tiger quolls at Front Royal, the mammal staff has attempted to
present a varied diet including items which might be found in the wild. Food items are
made available to the quolls on a average of three times a day. During first keeper
rounds of the day, adult quolls are fed two pinkie mice each. Shortly thereafter, just prior
to routine cage cleaning, live crickets are broadcast in each cage. Slightly past midday,
lactating females and all adult males receive dead mice, and all quolls are fed their

508

Management and Breeding of Tiger Quolls in Captivity . Cont'd

main meal of the day in the afternoon. Once a week anole lizards (Anolis carolinensis)
are fed live to all adult quolls as a cricket substitute. The lizards are available usually
only during warm weather.

In a seven day period, tiger quolls at Front Royal receive feline diet three times, chicken
meat once, butterfish once, and mice twice (live or dead). The availability of live food
(crickets, lizards, mice) is in an effort to generate as much activity as possible in the
quolls as they receive their food. Crickets, in particular, present an elusive food item and
force the quolls to concentrate on the task of prey location and acquisition. For developing
joeys, the crickets become the first food item secured independently, and a non-
threatening introduction into the predator-prey relationship.

The diet fed in captivity appears to play a major factor in the activity patterns of the
quolls. Observation in the wild (Settle, 1978; Mansergh, 1983; Walker, 1985) conclude
that quolls are nocturnal. Since arriving at Front Royal however, 56-plus hours of
recorded observations and daily keeper reports show a definite crepuscular activity
pattern. This has been observed with other captive quolls as well (Settle, 1978).

One aspect of animal management related to diet is routine weighing of the quolls to give
feedback on the effectiveness or overeffectiveness of the diet as presented. The naturally
inquisitive nature of the quolls enables us to place sky kennels in each individual's
enclosure on a monthly basis, which they readily enter, allowing us to maintain an
accurate, and current weight record. Diet can then be adjusted as necessary based on the
weight record of each individual over time (Table 1, Graph 1).

Medical

Since their arrival in 1984, 1.2 quolls have died at CRC. Information on longevity of tiger
quolls in the wild or captivity is only available in Collins (1973), and he gives records of
captive tiger quolls living between three and four years [six years for Eastern tiger quolls
(D. viverrinus) according to Jones (1963)].

The Department of Pathology at the National Zoo has performed necropsies on the three
tiger quolls that died. Twice tumors have been found and considered the cause of death.
Pathology studies indicate a high incidence of tumor growth in marsupials, occurring
more frequently than in other mammal species (Montali, pers. comm.). Each of these
quolls was considered at least 12 months old when they were received at CRC. Their
times on inventory were 3 years, four months; 3 years, 8 months; and 2 years, 7 months.
Approximate ages for these animals range from almost five years to three and a half
years.

In connection with NZP's ongoing preventive medicine program, all tiger quolls are
screened for internal parasites on an annual basis. Fecal screens in 1984 and 1985 have
found capillana eggs and strongyl eggs in three of the four original quolls. Each was
wormed with Panacor® for a prescribed period and follow-up fecals were taken which
were negative for eggs or larvae. Subsequent fecal screenings of captive-born and wild-
caught quolls have been negative.

Breeding

In Australia and Tasmania, tiger quoll breeding season occurs in the winter months of
June and July (Collins, 1973; Settle, 1978; Walker, 1983). Walker (1983) notes that in
females the pouch enlarges at this time, whether young are born or not. Over three
consecutive breeding seasons we have also observed pouch enlargement in all six
breeding age females at Front Royal. However, the northern hemisphere breeding
season occurs from December to February. When the quolls arrived at CRC in 1984, there
was concern regarding the reversal of seasonal breeding patterns for southern
hemisphere animals in the northern hemisphere. Here, the solar design of the Small
Animal Facility appears to have played some role in adjusting the quolls' biological
clock.

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Management and Breeding of Tiger Quolls in Captivity . Contd

Table 1. Weights of wild-caught tiger quolls while in collection at
NZP/CRC.

Male 105815
"Angus"

14 Jan 1986 = 2.75 kg

9 Jul 1986 = 3.40 kg

10 Sept 1986 = 3.35 kg
8 Oct 1986 = 3.15 kg
22 Nov 1986 = 3.0 kg

10 Jan 1987 = 2.8 kg
16 Jan 1987 = 2.7 kg

11 Feb 1987 = 2.8 kg

11 Mar 1987 = 2.7 kg

12 Apr 1987 = 3.0 kg
7 May 1987 = 3.0 kg

Male 105818
"Sydney"

7 Jan 1986 = 2.5 kg
14 Jan 1986 = 2.6 kg

9 Jul 1986 = 3.65 kg

10 Sept 1986 = 3.8 kg

8 Oct 1986 = 3.5 kg
5 Jul 1987 = 3.2 kg
Aug 1987 = 3.2 kg
Sept 1987 =3.2 kg

Female 105816
’Melbourne"

14 Jan 1986 = 2.35 kg

9 Jul 1986 = 3.15 kg

10 Sept 1986 = 3.3 kg

Female 105817
"Stella"

14 Jan 1986 = 2.55 kg
3 Jul 1987 = 1.65 kg
18 Jul 1986 = 1.25 kg

While breeding in Australia and Tasmania occurs in June and July, the southern
hemisphere winter, no breeding took place at CRC in June and July 1984. The staff had
planned to begin encounters during the fall and as the days shortened activity increased
in all the quolls. The solar panels in the SAF allow for the natural photoperiod to affect the
behavior of the small mammals housed in the building. Records of the five litters born at
CRC in three breeding seasons indicate that our wild-caught and captive-born females
experience estrus during northern hemisphere winter months, from late December
through February. The same short photoperiod as for tiger quolls breeding in Australia
and Tasmania.

Females are polyestrus, allowing for possible reproductive success if a first litter of pouch
young is lost prematurely. The pouch of female tiger quolls contains six mammae.
Litter size has ranged at Front Royal from 1 to 3 young. Other (Collins, 1973; Walker,
1983) report litter sizes of 4 to 6 young.

Settle (1978) states that the estrus cycle and gestation period lengths are each 21 days for
tiger quolls. During this period females will scent mark grass and other objects to
advertise their receptive breeding condition. Courtship and mating is a long affair, as we
have certainly learned in our quolls. At Front Royal copulation has been documented for
periods of 24 hours. Breeding encounters have lasted an average of 72 hours with a
decline in the amount of time the male spends mounting the female as the length of

510

Management and Breeding of Tiger Quolls in Captivity . Contd

encounter grows. Other sources (Marsergh, 1983; Settle, 1978) note breeding encounters
lasting several hours.

Typical breeding behavior for tiger quolls finds the male chasing the female, smelling
her cloaca and areas she has scent marked. When the male approaches the female she
may give a loud hiss which serves as a warning vocalization, or she allows the male to
mount her while he is emitting a clucking vocalization.

Males will grip the female's body with their forelegs and bite the nap of the female's neck
with their teeth. Observations of breeding quolls at Front Royal show significant activity
on both male and female's part during breeding. Often the pair rotates while breeding
producing a cleared circular area on the cage substrate. Males have been observed
dragging females around the enclosure and females have even moved small distances to
get a drink of water while mounted by the male. Only infrequently will significant
wounds develop on the female's neck from the bites received during the mating.

GRAPH 1. Weights of captive-bom tiger quolls at NZP/CRC.

The first breeding encounters began in October of 1984 as we preselected "Angus" to be
run with "Stella", and "Sydney" to be run with "Melbourne" (see Table 2). All four
quolls were unimpressed with each other's company throughout October and November.
Finally, on the first of December, Angus successfully mounted Stella, and mounting
continued almost uninterrupted until the fifth of December. On 14 January, Stella's
pouch was checked and found empty, so Angus was reintroduced to her. Keepers observed
the pair breeding on 31 January and this breeding encounter lasted until 4 February. For
the remainder of the month keepers observed Stella making nests and carrying straw
throughout the enclosure. On the 25th when Angus approached her at one of her nests she

511

Management and Breeding of Tiger Quolls in Captivity . Contfd

screeched at him, a threat vocalization. Once the male had withdrawn to his enclosure the
animals were separated until we could determine if the female had pouch young or not.
On 2 April we were rewarded with the sight of 2 young joeys in Stella's pouch, the first
tiger quolls born outside of Australia!

Table 2. Total breeding pairings and resulting births of tiger quolls of
Conservation and Research Center.

Breeding Pairings

Months Breeding
Encounters Run

(Joeys Born)
litter

Survived

Angus x Stella

12/84, 1/85, 2/85

Adelaide

Alice

Both

Angus x Stella

11/85, 12/85, 1/86

Drysdale

Perth

Chelsea

All

Angus x Melbourne

2/86

Sydney x Melbourne

11/84

Sydney x Melbourne

11/85, 12/85, 1/86
2/86

Sydney x Adelaide

1/86, 2/86

Sydenyx Alice

1/86, 2/86

Taree

Cooma

Both

Sydney x Alice

11/86, 12/86

0.0.1

None

Sydney x Adelaide

12/86

Sarina

Sarina

Sydney x Chelsea

1/87

Stanley

Reynella

Both

Sydney x Perth

1/87

Dry s dale x Taree

1/87

Drysdale x Cooma

1/87

Similar good fortune did not occur that breeding season with the second pair. Sydney and
Melbourne were run together from November until mid-January with no breeding
observed.

In the fall of 1985, the same animals were paired for breeding and again Angus
successfully bred Stella, this time producing a litter of 3 joeys. And for the second
consecutive season Melbourne and Sydney failed to breed successfully. That being the
case, Angus was introduced to Melbourne in mid-February 1986 and as soon as the female

512

Management and Breeding of Tiger Quolls in Captivity . Contd

entered the male’s cage he descended to the ground and mounted her. The breeding
encounter lasted 4 days, but after a four-week waiting period Melbourne's pouch was
checked and found empty.

Since Sydney was having no success breeding Melbourne, he was introduced in turn to
Stella's offspring, both females. Round robin encounters began 2 January and finally
concluded on 1 March. On 21 March of 1986 our second litter for the season was born to
"Alice", Stella's daughter.

The 1986-87 breeding season began on 10 November when Sydney was reintroduced
(unsuccessfully) to "Adelaide". For the next two months Sydney was alternated between
Stella’s four daughters, born the previous two years. Sydney successfully bred two of the
females for a total number of three joeys born.

As noted in the literature (Settle, 1978; Mansergh, 1983; Walker, 1983) vocalizations by
females in particular are an effective deterrent for the males as the estrous cycle wanes or
the gestation period reaches the end. Where previously males had access to any part of the
female's cage, intolerance towards the male develops quickly and will be directed at
them even after removal from the female's enclosure.

One observation noted with all of our pouch gravid females at CRC is their disposition to
elevate the hindquarters at birth and for the first three weeks after the joeys have entered
the pouch. When observed resting the pouch gravid females would either be lying on their
side, or if sternal, the hindquarters were always elevated.

Maternal Behavior and Juvenile Development

Before any tiger quoll litters had been bom at CRC, a management decision to allow litter
development to occur without physical manipulation of the female and young, was
decided upon. After three breeding seasons and six litters born, CRC has been able to
compile data on maternal behavior and juvenile development which is comparable to that
found by Settle (1978), Collins (1973), and Mansergh (1983) (see Table 4).

As mentioned in the previous section, recently bred females have been observed resting
with raised hindquarters immediately before joeys enter the pouch as well as for a
number of weeks after becoming pouch gravid. Alternatively, females will rest on their
side, bringing no weight to bear on the pouch. The appetite of the female increases
dramatically at this time and at 3 weeks after birth females will climb the front wire of
the enclosure allowing the keepers to observe the joeys in the pouch. At this stage of
development joeys are 12.5mm to 19mm (0.50 to 0.75 inches) long, pink, and hairless.

Nestbuilding behavior is pronounced during the first 4 weeks after birth. Paternal
investment in juvenile development suggested by Settle (1978) is unestablished at CRC.
The aggressive and vocal manner in which females react to their mates, immediately
before giving birth, led to the decision that males would be separated from females with
young.

At 7 weeks post partum keepers have observed a brown fuzz of hair on the joeys as their
mothers climb the cage front for pinkie mice. Size of the joeys at this time is
approximately 25.4mm (1 inch). By the time the joeys are 9 weeks old the brown fuzz has
turned to hair and the white spots are evident; size is now between 38mm and 51mm (1.5
and 2 inches).

The females at CRC have all become reclusive when joeys are 10 weeks old spending
daylight hours under logs or nestboxes in nests they have excavated. The change in
behavior and increase of vocalizations from the nests suggest that the joeys are now
unattached to the nipples. Vocalizations of the female are of two types, a hissing sound
similar to "echh-echh-echh...", and a clucking "nuc-nuc-nuc...". The first vocalization
appears to be a warning while the second acts as a "come to me" or "all's calm" type of

513

Management and Breeding of Tiger Quolls in Captivity . Contd

call. Occasionally between the 10th and 12th week, the female is found out of the nest at
feeding time and joeys have been observed. At this age pouches can be distinguished on
juvenile females. Body length (not including the tail) has increased to 77mm (3 inches)
or larger.

At CRC we have recorded the eyes of joeys open at 12 weeks. At this age the joeys begin to
venture out of the nest together with the mother. The female at this period will be
aggressively defensive about her offspring. Even familiar keepers entering enclosures
with feed may be greeted with the open mouth threat gesture by the female. Surprisingly,
of the wild-caught and captive-born mothers at CRC, it is the captive-born female that has
defended her young with such passion.

Table 4. Developmental data for five litters of tiger quoll (Dasvurus
maculatus ) at NZP/CRC.

Age of Young Development Noted

Week 7
Week 9
Week 10
Week 11

Week 13

Week 14

Week 15

Week 16

Week 17

Week 18

Week 22
Week 25
Week 52
2 Years

Approximately 1 inch in length, hairless.
Brown fuzz evident, white spots visible.

Size is two inches.

Female in nest for greater lengths of time,
joeys unattach from nipples.

Eyes open, size is 4 inches, adult coloration,
fully furred; joeys observed in enclosure
locomo ting independently. Play behavior.

Joeys climbing, running, sniffing female’s
food

Joey play behavior with female and/or
siblings.

Clinging to female's back occasionally
while in enclosure.

Joeys observed chasing, catching, killing and
eating crickets. Juvenile stools begin to be
found in enclosure.

Joeys begin taking pinkie mice from pan or
keepers. Observed eating anole lizards.

Juveniles attempt to mount female.

Juveniles chase, catch, kill adult mice.

Sexual maturity is reached.

Full adult size is reached.

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Management and Breeding of Tiger Quolls in Captivity . Confd

By the 12th and 13th weeks, joeys' body size alone has increased to approximately 102mm
(4 inches) or more. Play behavior begins at this point, and is a major factor of day-to-day
living for the next 4 weeks. Play observed is initiated by the female or by the siblings.
Siblings have been observed stalking their mother, attacking her tail or hindquarters
with occasional leaps onto her back. This play will occur if the female is actively
involved or resting. Once the female becomes irritated from bites she will hiss at the
joeys or even pin them down and bite them (Collins and Conway, 1986).

Sibling play is varied and includes stalking, chasing, climbing, wrestling, and open-
mouth fighting and biting. Also observed is a mock mounting complete with neck bites;
this has been observed with both male and female joeys. All types of sibling play occur
with considerable vocalizations of the "echh-echh-echh..." type.

From the 14th week on the females will spend increasingly less time with their offspring.
From this time through the 17th week she will take food to the juveniles or have them
follow her as she hunts for crickets and mice. On occasion she joins in the juvenile play.
At other times females have been observed playing predator to their offspring prey. On
these occasions the female has placed herself between the joeys and their nest. She then
calls the joeys using the "nuc-nuc-nuc" vocalization. As the joeys attempt to return to the
nest she runs them down, pinning them to the ground in mock attack before releasing
them. It appears that the female feels her offspring may be becoming too bold and
venturing too far from the safety of the nest. This behavior suggests that the female is
showing the joeys what happens to reckless tiger quoll joeys (Collins and Conway, 1986).

The first juvenile stools are found when the joeys are 17 weeks old. At this time joeys can
be observed catching and eating crickets by themselves. By the time they are 19 weeks old
the joeys will be eating pinkie mice, food from the feed pans, or catching, killing and
taking back to the nest adult mice or anole lizards.

By the time the joeys are 20 weeks old they can survive on their own. At CRC they have
been separated from their mother anywhere from 25 to 30 weeks after birth.

As has been noted by Settle (1978) a captive environment and change in methods of food
procurement appears to significantly alter tiger quoll activity patterns. Fifty-six and a
half hours of observation, covering the 24 hour period, has provided us with data to show
that while tiger quolls may be nocturnal in nature, they exhibit a crepuscular tendency in
captivity. At CRC the quolls will be active from 0500 hrs. to 0830 hrs. and again from 2000
hrs. to 2200 hrs.

Discussion

In the last three years NZP/CRC has achieved its objective of successfully breeding tiger
quolls outside their native land. Indeed, three generations of captive-born quolls have
been produced at CRC. These tiger quolls have the potential to make the zoo visitor aware
of Australia's "native cats" through exhibition once a secure breeding population is
established. A two-fold purpose can be served here, zoological exhibition and species
survival. As Mansergh (1983) and Settle (1978) pointed out, several factors including
deforestation, habitat destruction, widespread trapping, and poisoning have combined to
reduce the tiger quoll to a rare to uncommon species on the Australian continent and
uncommon to common in Tasmania.

While captive breeding prospects for tiger quolls appear good, a number of problems must
be solved before a secure breeding population is achieved. The CRC quoll population is
based on four founding animals, of which three contributed their bloodlines through
breeding (Table 5). Since 1984, no other tiger quolls have arrived in any North American
facility from Australia or Tasmania. While tiger quolls are maintained at at least one
Australian zoological facility in Healesville (Geoff Underwood, pers. comm.), the
animals have not successfully bred or reproduced. To insure future long-term breeding

515

Management and Breeding of Tiger Quolls in Captivity . Contd

success in captivity some exchange of quolls is necessary between U.S. and
Australian/Tasmanian facilities or agencies. This is necessary to insure the lowest
level of inbreeding possible in the captive population. Computer generation of
hypothetical inbreeding coefficient values for CRC tiger quolls shows values ranging
from 0 to 0.125 to 0.25 depending on pairings. Unfortunately, unless new, unrelated
quolls enter the program, one CRC male may have to breed his sisters and aunts this year
to continue the program.

Behavioral differences observed between the wild-caught individuals and their offspring
are considerable. Of the original four quolls, only one was inquisitive about her keepers.
All other quolls spent at least one year hiding in their enclosures before allowing keepers
to see them out in the enclosure area. Their offspring have been anything but retiring.
Aggressive and inquisitive, the captive-born quolls often make it difficult for keepers to
enter the enclosures. When approached by the keepers, the captive-born quolls are less
likely to respond with the open jaw threat posture. One difference noted in captive-born
quolls has been the aggressive defense of one female with joeys, as noted earlier.

When considering tiger quolls as public exhibit animals several points come to mind.
Both juveniles and adults are very active at least early and late in the day. All quolls
spend 40% of their waking hours, based on observations, searching their enclosures for
food or climbing and digging. From spring through summer, juvenile development
occurs which will give the zoo visitor an opportunity to see prey stalking behavior and
play behavior develop. Any enclosure for tiger quolls should contain climbing material,
areas for digging and nest construction, as well as brush piles and straw which quolls
will investigate frequently.

As a final note, it is important to recall that tiger quolls have a short lifespan, on the
average of three to four years. Keeping this fact in mind, a tiger quoll should be bred as
soon as it reaches sexual maturity at one year old. Since litter size can range as high as
six with high survival ratios, contingencies should be made for placement of surplus
offspring at other facilities if space is not available where the young are born.

As a small mammal the tiger quoll is a good candidate for both captive breeding and
captive display. We have been able to establish a successful multiple generation captive
breeding program at CRC, and hope in the future to provide the impetus to the display of
tiger quolls in zoos throughout North America.

Acknowledgments

Several people at the Conservation and Research Center lent their time and talents to
suggestions and review of this manuscript. For their help I'd like to thank Larry Collins,
Jack Willaims, Arthur Cooper, Barbara Atwood, Laura Walker, and John Watson-
Jones.

References

Collins. L.R. 1973. Monotremes and Marsupials. A Reference for zoological
institutions. Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington, DC.

Collins, L.R. 1973. and Conway, KP. 1986. A quoll by any other name. Zoogoer .
15(1):14-16.

Fleay, D. 1948. The status, distribution and abundance of Dasyurus maculatus (Tiger
quoll) in Australia with particular reference to Victoria. Australian Zoologist.
21(2):109-122.

Settle, G.A. 1978. The quiddity of Tiger Quolls. Australian Natural History . 19:164-169.
Walker, E.P. 1985. Mammals of the World. 4th Edition. Ronald M. Nowak and

John L. Paradisco (Eds.), The Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, MD.

516

ANGUS (T) 8 STELLA (T) 8 MELBOURNE (T) <S SYDNEY

Management and Breeding of Tiger Quolls in Captivity , Contd.

cd

517

Management and Breeding of Tiger Quolls in Captivity . Confd

Products mentioned in this paper

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Kalwall Corps., Ill Condia Rd., Manchester, NH 03103.

Ross Laboratories/Division of Abbot Laboratories, Columbus, OH
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518

Institutions wishing to advertise employments opportunities are asked to send pertinent
data by the 15th of each month to: Opportunity Knocks / AKF. 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.

ANIMAL KEEPER . ..For the City of Pittsburgh Parks & Recreation/Pittsburgh Zoo.
Salary $9,156 per hour. Feeds and care for and observes the animals including elephants
at the Pittsburgh Zoo; answers questions and conducts tours for public education program
participants and the general public. Requires 2 years’ experience in captive
management of exotic animals or an equivalent combination of education and
experience. Applications and additional information available until the filing deadline
of 4 January 1988. Write to request applications at: The Department of Personnel and
Civil Service Commission, Fourth Floor, City-County Building, Pittsburgh, PA 15219.
Job info on "City Jobline", 24 hrs.-7 days/wk. (412) 255-2388. EOE. M/F/H

o

ZOOKEEPER ...Teamres high school diploma. College-level biology
courses and one years' paid zoo experience desirable (relevant unpaid
experience may substitute). Salary $12,618-#19,197/yr., plus benefits.
Recruiting for openings November 1987 - March 1988. Send resume by
30 December 1987 to: Personnel Department, City of Topeka, P.O. Box
1996, Topeka, KS 66601.

o

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u

ZOOKEEPERS . ..The Indianapolis Zoo will be adding 44 keepers in the
Waters (marine mammals and fish), Forests (large cats), Deserts
(poisonous reptiles), Plains (elephants), Animal Encounters (domestic
animals), and Commissary Areas from January through April 1988.

Included areHead Keepers ($17,000-$23,000), Senior Keepers ($15,000-$21,000),
and Keepers ($12,000-$18,000). Applications will be considered for appropriate I*
positions depending on education and experience. Be a part of an entirely
new state of the art zoo. Send resumes to: Richard M. Hurst, Director of
Human Resources, Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis,

IN 46222 h v 15 January 1988.

1

t

y

k

n

o

c

k

AMAZON INTERN SHIPS . ..work! study at a field station 80 miles deep in
climax tropical rainforest, Peru. Specialties include: rehabilitation, re-
introduction of wildlife confiscated from the illegal pet trade; nature photography; field
study. Must pay airfare, tuition, room and board. Contact: Amazon Conservation
Foundation, 18328 Gulf Blvd., Indian Shores, FL 34635.

ELEPHANT HANDLER . ..degree preferred. Minimum two years' experience working
with elephants required. Applicants must have good communications skills and desire to
be part of a modern, progressive zoo emphasizing education, conservation and research.
Salary commensurate with experience. Send cover letter and resume to: Tony Vecchio,
Curator of Mammals, Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Ave. S.E., Atlanta, GA 30315.

CHILDRENS ZOO ATTENDENT/MAMMAL DEPT ... candidates must have education,
training or experience which clearly demonstrates a knowledge of animal
behavior/biology. Should be experienced in the handling of domestic/exotic species and
the raising of neonatal animals. Must be able to communicate well and act as public
educator. Candidates should be able to accept responsibility for exhibit animals, assist
keepers, and work some night shifts. This is a regular position with benefits in the
Children's Zoo. 32-40 hours per week at a salary of $8.71-$9.85 per hour. EOE. M/F/H/V.
Please respond no later than 20 December 1987 to: San Diego Zoo, Human Resources, attn:
JoDean Parrish, P.O. Box 551, San Diego, CA 92112.

ZOOKEEPER ... Reid Park Zoo - responsible for animal care and maintenance, daily
record keeping, and interaction with education staff and public. Experience with large
exotic mammals preferred. Salary $18,204 plus benefits. Send letter of interest/resume
to: City of Tucson, Personnel Dept., P.O. Box 27210, 111 E. Pennington, Tucson, A Z 85726-
7210.

a

519

Biological Values II Now Available

AAZK is pleased to offer its members and
other interested individuals in the zoo
community the mammal reference book
entitled Biological Values For Selected
Mammals - - 1985 Edition. This updated
and expanded edition is far more compre-
hensive than the original edition. The 1985
Edition is a 112-page work containing bio-
logical data on 441 species of mammals.
Included in the data are: common name,
scientific name (identified by genus and
species and arranged according to the 19
recognized orders of mammals), geographic
range, normal adult size, normal adult
weight, estrus cycle, gestation period, num-
ber of young, weaning, sexual maturity, life
expectancy, body temperature, pulse and
respiration rate, and names used for the
male, female and young of each species.
Three pages of the references for data given
are included, as is a nine-page index of the
selected mammals by common name with
cross-indexing when considered appropriate.
A Table of Contents offers the researcher
quick access to pertinent information.

This handy and informative publication was researched and compiled by a team of seventeen
zookeepers, docents, interns and zoo volunteers at the San Francisco Zoo, and separately
identifies and incorporates certain pertinent empirical data submitted by twenty zookeepers
from twelve zoos throughout the world. Formated for quick and easy reference, and
charmingly illustrated, this book will surely be an important and welcome addition to the
library of any zookeeper and/or member of the zoo community.

Biological Values For Selected Mammals is being offered for sale at the following prices:
Professional AAZK Member ($4.00); Other AAZK Membership Categories ($5.50); Non-
Members ($7.00). This price includes postage and handling. Orders outside the U.S. (including
Canada) need to add $2.00 per copy for First Class mail service. Domestic orders are sent
Book Rate. To order, fill out the form below or send necessary information to: Biological
Values Book , c/o AAZK National Headquarters, 635 Gage Blvd., Topeka, KS 66606. Make
check or money order (U.S. Funds Only) payable to: "Biological Values/AAZK". Domestic
orders please allow 4-6 weeks delivery at Book Rate.

Biological Values Order Form

Please send copy/copies, at $ each to: (Please Print)

NAME:

ADDRESS:

CITY: STATE: ZIP:

Please check Membership Category: P ( ) AF ( ) AS ( ) INST ( ) NON-MEM ( )

520

AJL2L5L Belt Buckles

TMs bigb qnality, solid brass belt btaekle mew
©oimes in two si^es to Idt 1 in* and 1 3/4 in* belts*

An excellent way to "wear" your support Of AAZK!! Proceeds go
toward AAZK National and the San Diego Chapter of AAZK.

©dM IFoam

Please send buckle(s) at $16.00 each $

specify # of each buckle size: 1" 1 3/4"

Shipping & Handling $ 1.80/one buckle or

$6.00/five buckles $ - — * — -

TOTAL ENCLOSED $ ™__

Please make check or money order payable to: "AAZK San Diego
Chapter Please allow up to four weeks for delivery.

Name:

Address: ________________________________

City: State: Zip:

Send order form to: AAZK Belt Buckles f c/o Terri Schuermann, San
Diego Wild Animal Park , 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido ,
CA 92027.

521

AAZK T-Shirts Once Again Available!!!

The Little Rock Zoo AAZK Chapter is pleased to announce that AAZK
Logo T-Shirts are once again available. The T-Shirts are available in
tan, blue or brown and are constructed of a 50/50 poly-cotton blend
for long wear and easy care. The AAZK Rhino Logo is imprinted on
the left front pocket area of each shirt.

The price per shirt is $7.00, which includes postage/handling. To
order, please complete the form below and send with a check or
money order made out to "AAZK Little Rock Chapter

AAZK LOGO T-SHIRT ORDER FORM

PLEASE SEND — T-SHIRTS AT $7.00 EACH $

TOTAL ENCLOSED $

NAME:

ADDRESS:

CITY:

STATE:

ZIP:

COLOR CHOICE: (please circle) TAN BLUE BROWN

SIZE CHOICE: (please check) SM M _L Ex-L _

Send completed form to:

AAZK T-Shirt
Jannet Meade
AAZK Little Rock Chapter
#1 Jonesboro Drive
Little Rock, AR 72205

522

Attention

Fellow AAZK Members

The AAZK Milwaukee Chapter now has
coffee mugs available to purchase. These
beige porcelain mugs feature the National
AAZK Rhino Logo design in dark brown.

Cost of the mug is $1.50 which includes
postage/handling.

Please send the order form below along with payment to:

AAZK Coffee Mug
do AAZK Milwaukee
10001 W. Bluemond Rd.

Milwaukee, WI 53226

Please make check or money order payable to: ” AAZK - Milwaukee Chapter”.

AAZK LOGO COFFEE MUG ORDER FORM

Name:

Address:

City: Sfofrp? Zip:

Telephone: ( )

Please send AAZK Logo Coffee Mug(s) at $5.50 each.

Total Amount Enclosed: $

AAZK

523

Not only do we have the return of the popular 2" x 3 M sticker, we are
also introducing a handy 1” x 1 1/2” sticker.

DON'T WAIT - ORDER TODAY!

Proceeds go toward AAZK (National) and the Appalachian Chapter of
AAZK. Prices are: $1.50 for 2" x 3” stickers, $.75 for 1" x 1 1/2"
stickers. Order more than one - they will be turning up everywhere!

ORDER FROM:

AAZK Stickers
c/o Rosemary Jalink
Mill Mountain Zoo, Inc.
P.O. Box 13484
Roanoke, VA 24034

Make checks payable to "AAZK Appalachian Chapter "

AAZK STICKER ORDER FORM

Please send ___ 2" x 3" stickers at $1.50 each

1" x 1 1/2" stickers at $.75 each _
TOTAL ENCLOSED &

Name: .

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery. Send to: AAZK Stickers, c/o
Rosemary Jalink, Mill Mountain Zoo, Inc., P.O. Box 13484, Roanoke,
VA 24034.

524

AAZK Keeper Training Video Tape Project

The goal of the AAZK Keeper Training Video Tape Project is to
produce quality video tape training programs suitable to supplement
existing in-house training of entry level keepers. These tapes are not
intended to be a complete training program in themselves. All
proceeds generated from the sale of training tapes will be used to
finance production of future training tapes. Two tapes are currently
available.

Zoo Keener Safety: An Attitude Adjustment - This 18-minute
program does not attempt to address the numerous variable specifics
of this subject. It presents a safety approach to the job of zoo
keeping, and promotes constant awareness and personal
responsibility for safety.

A Zoo Keeper's Introduction to Feeds and Feeding - A half-hour
introduction to the complex subject of feeds and feeding of zoo
animals. Topics covered include what, when, and where to feed.

AAZK Keeper Training Video Tape Purchase Agreement
Responsibilities and Restrictions of the Buyer

1) The tape may not be duplicated or made available to any person or

institution for the purpose of duplication.

2) The tape may not be utilized for any commercial purpose.

3) Should the buyer decide the tape will not be useful to their train-
ing program, the undamaged tape may be returned within 14 days
of receipt of a partial refund - $10 for BETA and VHS, $18 for 3/4
inch.

I, the undersigned, accept the responsibility for the restrictions

listed above.

Name: __ (type or print)

Signature: Date:

Organization/Institution:

Shipping Address:

City: stfltp; Zip:

Telephone: ( )

Tape Title:

Format: BETA VHS 3/4 INCH

$25 $25 $35

Make checks payable to: "AAZK Keeper Training Video Tape Project".

Mail To: B. Wayne Buchanan, Woodland Park Zoological Gardens, 5500
Phinney Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98103.

525

Index For Volume XIV. Numbers 1-12. 1987

American Association of Zoo Keepers

AAZK Board Appoints Project/

Committee Heads Jan 1

Info Packet Available for "Founders
Weekend" Jan 1

AAZK Award Nominations Are Now
Being Accepted for 1987
(Excellence in Zookeeping)

Jan 6

(Certificate of Merit
for Zookeeper Education)

Feb40

(Meritorious Achievement)

Mar 74

AAZK Awards Deadline Getting Closer
Ap 105

AAZK Award Recipients Oct 298

1987 State of the Association

Report Jan 7

Election '87 Jan 18

(forms in tan insert)

Election Reminder for Professional
Members Ap 105

Election/Vote Reminder May 133

Keeper's Alert - Public Education

Committee Question Booklet
Jan 22, May 155, Aug 229,

Dec 402

AAZK Regional Coordinators List

Jan 35, Feb (gold Insert), Mar 103,
Ap 125, May 148, Jun 191, Jul 222
Aug 255, Sep (tan insert), Oct 327,
Nov 362, Dec 374

Changes in RC Positions Feb 37
Foreign Keeper Sponsorship

Program Feb 37

AAZK/CAUZ Relationship and

Future Possibilities Feb 41
20th Anniversary "Founders Weekend"
(regis/hotel forms) Gold Insert
Public Education Committee

The Lasagna Theory of Public
Education Feb 58

Research Grants Available Mar 69
ADT Forms Available Mar 69

Jul 194
Oct 297

Winnipeg Conference

Patches Available Mar 72
CAUZ Seeks Zoo /University Link

Mar 75

Think Safety! (Food Preparation/
Storage Hazards Examined)

Mar 85

The Positive Effects of Conference
Participation Ap 108

Biological Values Order Form

Ap 126, Nov 363, Dec 519
Zoonoses Order Form Ap 131

Dates set for ’88 Conference/ Bids
Being Accepted for '89

May 133, Jun 161

New RC Appointed May 133

Diet Notebook Update May 137

A Report on the Membership

Directory from Pat Sammarco
Jun 161

Important Diet Notebook

Address Changes Jun 162

Editorial Comment on

Founders Weekend Jun 163

International Affairs

Committee Update Jun 168

Diet Notebook News Jul 193

RC System Update Jul 194

From the President Jul 194

Chapter Reform/By-Laws

Aug 226

Rules/Agenda for
'87 Board Meeting Sep 258

An Open Letter to the AAZK
Membership from
Kerry Hoffman Jul 202

New Board Members Named

Following Election Aug 225
New Mammal Coordinator/Public
Education Head Named

Sep 257

National HQ— address changes

Sep 257, Oct 297

Search on for Video Training Tapes

Sep 266

Keeper Training Materials Project
Update (Manuals Available)
Oct 306

Conference '87... another GREAT

AAZK Gathering Nov 329

Attention all zoos offering

Keeper Accommodations (KAL)
Nov 329

AAZK Materials Available for those
attending conferences Nov 329
Zookeepers in Public Education

(Survey Results) Nov 334

Staff Exchange— Everything I Know
and Then Some Nov 339

Attention Chapter Liaisons Nov 361
Overview of the 1987 AAZK Board

of Director's Meeting Dec 367

Conference '87-Milwaukee

First Call for Papers Feb 46

Milwaukee— a lot more than

the three B's Feb 47

Conference Headquarters Feb 48

Puzzle That Can Pay Off Feb 48

Crossword Puzzle Feb 48

Photo Album/Crossword Clues
Registration/ Hotel Forms
Pre-conference/Post-conference Tours

March Tan Insert

Side Trip Info/ Crossword Clues
Registration/ Hotel Forms
Guidelines for Typing Papers
for Published Proceedings

April Tan Insert

526

Conference '87 Milwaukee Continued

Second Call for Papers
Crossword Puzzle Clues
Registration/ Hotel Forms

May Tan Insert
Post-Conference Activities in Chicago
May 147

Letter to Membership
Crossword Puzzle Clues
Registration/ Hotel Forms
Post-Conference Activities in Chicago

Jun Tan Insert

Final Call for Papers
Crossword Puzzle Clues
Registration/Hotel Forms
Tentative Program
Conference Room Reservation
Foreign Keepers at Conference

Jul Tan Insert

Post-conference Activities in Chicago
Jul 209

Conference Registration Deadline
Dining in Milwaukee
Going.. .going... gone (auction)
Exhibitor Space Requirements
Registration/ Hotel Forms
Zoolympics
Crossword Puzzle Clues
Tentative Program

Aug Tan Insert

Conference '87 Official Airlines

Aug 241

Pick-up Service at Airport

Aug 241

Pre-conference Trip Info Aug 241
Post-conference Trip Update Aug 242
Final Reminders
Crossword Puzzle Clues
Day Rate Registration Form
List of Papers Scheduled
Conference Airlines

Sep Tan Insert

Conference '87... The Final Word

Oct 301

Conference '87... Another GREAT

AAZK Gathering Nov 329

Scoops and Scuttlebutt

AAZK Board Appoints Project/

Committee Heads Jan 1

Winnipeg Conference Patches

Available from National HQ
Jan 1

Info Packets Available on

Founders Weekend Jan 1

WPZ Hosts 2nd Workshop on

Applying Behavioral Research to
Zoo Animal Management
Jan 2

Chesapeake Wildlife Sanctuary

Seeks to Place Crippled Wildlife
Jan 2

AAZPA Western Regional

(Call for Papers) Jan 2

Change in RC Position Feb 37

Foreign Keeper Sponsorship

Program Announced Feb 37
Co-Founder of ICF Dead at 38 Feb 37
Research Grants Available Mar 69
ADT Forms Available Mar 69

Pittsburgh Zoo Memorabilia

Sought Mar 69

Gorilla Bibliography Available

Mar 69

AKF Takes on New Look Ap 105
AAZK Award Deadline Nears Ap 105
Attention all AAZK Professional

Members-Election Ap 105
Call for 1987 AAZPA

Conference Posters May 133
Dates set for ’88 Conference/Bids

being Accepted for '89 May 133
New RC Appointed May 133

Professional Members-

Don't Forget to Vote! May 133
Bids for Conference '89 Now

Being Accepted Jun 161
Report on Membership Directory

from Pat Sammarco Jun 161
Important Diet Notebook

Address Changes Jun 161
Papers Sought for 8th Annual

Elephant Conference Jul 193
Cherry Brook Zoo Seeks Materials
for North Atlantic Expo

Jul

193

Diet Notebook News

Jul

193

RC System Update

Jul

194

ADT Forms Available

Jul

194

Oct

297

The 'Far Side' Comes to

Our Side

Jul

194

From the President

Jul

194

New Board Members Named

Following Election Aug 225

A Note from Zoo Outreach

Organization-India Aug 225
RAP Session Planned at Milwaukee
Sep 257

New Mammal Coordinator/PE

Project Head Named Sep 258
IZE Features Articles by

AAZK Members Sep 257

National HQ— address changes Sep 257
Oct 297

Patch Exchange Set for ’87

National Conference Sep 257
Cherry Brook Zoo Sends Thanks

Oct 297

Conference '87.... Another GREAT

AAZK Gathering Nov 329

Attention All Zoos Offering
Keeper Accommodations (KAL)

Nov 329

AAZK Materials Available for Those
Attending Conferences Nov 329

527

Animal Keepers' Forum

AKF Takes on New Look Oct 297
Editorial Comment on

"Founder's Weekend" Jun 163
Correction on May Bird Article Jul 211
1987 Excellence in Journalism

Award Recipients Oct 299
Statement of Ownership, Management
and Circulation Nov 346
From the Editor's Desk...

Reflections Dec 365

Continuing Keeper Education Column

Checksheet Offers Valuable Tool

for Unit Training Jan 20
Keeper Training Materials

Identification Project Update
(manuals available) Oct 306
Staff Exchange... Everything I Know
and then Some Nov 339

Public Education Committee

Keeper's Alert - Questions & Answers
Sought for Zoo Answer Book
Jan 22, May 155, Aug 229,

Dec 403

The Lasagna Theory of Public

Education Feb 58

New P.E. Project Head Named Sep 257
Zookeepers in Public Education

(Survey Results) Nov 334

Keener News /Zoo News

WPZ Hosts 2nd Behavioral Research
Conference Jan 2

Fresno's Favorite Elephant

Celebrates 40th Birthday

Jan 14

Chapter News

Jan 15, Feb 51, Mar 101,

Ap 122-23, May 151-152,

Jul 210, Aug 253, Oct 316-17,
Nov 336

Foreign Keeper Sponsorship Program
Continues to Grow Feb 37
Co-Founder of ICF Dead

at 38 Feb 37

Saying Good-bye - Laurence

Brainard Feb 44

Keeper’s Alert— Logo Coffee

Mugs Available Feb 45

No Lion: Creative Marketing

Lives in Tulsa (Zoos Brothers)
Feb 53

Joys of Convention Fundraising

or a Weekend in Hell Feb 56
Keeper's Alert— Felid Research/Interest
Group Forming Ap 118

May 158
Jun 166
Jul 216

Zoo Trivia Sought Ap 118

Cheetah Interest Group Forming

May 158, Jun 166
Wildlife Preservation Trust

Training Program May 159
Keeper's Alert-Founder's Weekend

T-shirts/Mugs Still Available
Jun 164

Riverbanks Chapter Offering

Note Cards Jun 172

Zoo News From China Jul 200

NWRA Announces Small

Grants Program Jul 211

"Zoo Stories" Sought Jul 216

Aug 227

Nutrasweet Fundraiser Aug 238
RAP Session Planned at

Milwaukee '87 Sep 257

Zookeepers in Public Education

(Survey Results) Nov 334

How Hot Was It? Nov 345

Attention Chapter Liaisons Nov 361

Legislative /Environmental News

California Considering Mountain
Lion Trophy Season Feb 55

On the Brink of Extinction—

the Rhino's Plight Feb 62
Condor Update-USFWS Purchases
Land for Condor Refuge

Mar 76

Wildlife Survival Update

(CITES agenda) Ap 121
Last Wild California Condor

Captured May 160

BQQk Reviews

How to Become Extinct Jan 19

Amie The Darling Starling Ap 118
Eastern Chipmunks, Secrets of

Their Solitary Lives May 153
Trends in Ecology and Evolution

Jun 187

Of Their Own Free Will Jul 208

Nim: A Chimpanzee Who Learned

Sign Language Aug 244

The Great Gray Owl— Phantom of

the Northern Forest Oct 313

Diseases in Reptiles Nov 354

Education

CKE— Checksheet Offers Valuable
Tool for Unit Training

Jan 20

PEC Seeks Input on Zoo

Question Booklet Jan 22

Poultry Class Teaches

Valuable Lesson Jan 34

The Lasagna Theory of

Public Education Feb 58

Animal Lovers- -Answer Your

Call to the Wild! Ap 1 10

528

Education Continued

Jersey Wildlife Preservation

Trust Training Program

May 159

Exhibit Design Checklist Jun 169
CKE— Keeper Training Materials

Identification Project Update:
Manuals Available Oct 306
CKE— Staff Exchange... Everything I
Know and Then Some Nov 339

Conservation

Dr. Birute Galdikas to Lecture

at Miami Metrozoo Jan 20
California Considering Mountain
Lion Trophy Season Feb 55
On the Brink of Extinction:

the Rhino's Plight Feb 62
Condor Update— USFWS Purchases
Land for Condor Refuge

Mar 76

Developing Zoos Mar 77

Wildlife Survival Update

(CITES Agenda) Ap 121

Last California Condor Captured

May 160

U.S. and Canada Sign Caribou

Conservation Pact Nov 361

R es e ar ch

Nixon Griffis Fund Announces
Award Recipients

Jan 16, Oct 318, Dec 418
Sperm Motility Analyzer Offers
Broad Spectrum of
Applications Jan 23

The Natural and Zoological History
of Four Capromid Rodents

Jan 25

CAUZ Seeks to Link Aquariums,

Zoos and Universities in
Beneficial Partnership

Feb 41

Survival of Hand-Raised

Hoofstock Feb 60

There's Nothing in this Cage-

Lemming Activity Feb 63
Developing Zoos Mar 77

The Preliminary Analysis of Space
Use, Body Orientation and
Tail Use in Captive Ringtail
Possums Mar 88

Artificial Insemination in Birds:

A Basic Methodology for
the Modem Keeper Ap 127
A Method of Predicting Births

in Small Antelope May 156

Egg Weight Loss During

Incubation Jun 188

Potoroo Palatibility Project Jul217

A Survey of Intestinal Parasites
in Wild, Ex-Captive and
Captive Orangutans

Part I Aug 245

Part II Sep 269

Information Requests

Indian Sloth Bears Feb 57

Felid Research/Conservation

Group Mar 84

Hand-rearing of Psittacine

Chicks Mar 84

Asphalt Yards for Hoofstock Mar 84
Black Kites, Common Kites
and Pariah Kites
Dietary Needs of Elephants
Artificial Insemination
in Reptiles

Orangutan Infant Adoption
by Other Orangs
Elephant Shrews /African

Spotted Grass Mouse Jun 172
Reproductive Age Parameters

for Guenons Jul 206

Accepting Donated Animals

from the Public Jul 206

Management of Fishers

in Captivity Jul 206

Ocellated Turkey Management/

Husbandry Jul 206

Marmosets/ Meerkats

(husbandly) Jul 206

African Weaver Nesting

Material Aug 256, Sep 261

Brown Bats for Education Aug 256
Sep 261

Heartworms in River

Otters Oct 309, Nov 353

Urine Collection for Pregnancy
Testing in Polar Bears

Oct 307, Nov 353
Use of Power Equipment

Around Animals Oct 309, Nov 353
Help Needed to Rebuild Lost Files

Oct 307, Nov 353
Anesthesia Complications in

Male Reindeer Nov 353

Constricted Toe Syndrome

in Captive Birds Dec 390

Narrative Training Tapes Dec 390

Cuis history/husbandry Dec 390

Think Safety!

Zoo Keepers - A Safety Countdown
Jan 24

Food Preparation/ Storage

Hazards Examined Mar 85

Safety in Captive Wildlife
Photography May 138

Ap 117
Ap 117

May 153

Jun 172

529

Exhibit Options

A First... East of the Mississippi

Ap 124

New Bird Exhibits at the

Dallas Zoo May 149

Exhibit Design Checklist Jun 169

Sizing Up Graphics Nov 347

Misceiia n epyis

Wild America Begins 5th

Season on PBS Jan 23

Saying Goodbye— Laurence Brainard
Feb 44

Notes on Seconday Pneumonial
Death in an Infant Baird's
Tapir Ap 110

Animal Lovers- -Answer Your

Call to the Wild! Ap 1 10

The Best Way to Control

Environmental Sanitation
and Related Pest Problems in
Zoological Facilities Jul215
Nurtasweet Fundraiser Aug 238

Volia L'AGAZ! Oct 312

Roseate Spoonbill Round-up Oct 319
How Hot Was It? Nov 345

AKF Papers Indexed bv Month

Fresno's Favorite Elephant Celebrates
40th Birthday Jan 14

The Natural and Zoological History
of Four Capromid Rodents Jan 25
No Lion: Creative Marketing Lives
in Tulsa (Blues Brothers)

Feb 53

Survival of Hand-Raised

Hoofstock Feb 60

There's Nothing in this Cage...

Lemming Activity Feb 63
Developing Zoos Mar 77

A Preliminary Analysis of Space
Use, Body Orientation and
Tail Use in Captive Ringtail
Possums Mar 88

The Positive Effects of

Conference Participation Ap 108
Having a Ball With Beetlemania

Ap 112

Evaluating Forage Fed to

Exotic Hoofstock Ap 114
The Collaboration of the Keeper and
the Veterinarian in the
Chemical Restraint of
Great Apes by Hand Syringe
Injection Ap 116

One Small Step

(Elephant Set) Ap 119

A First... East of the

Mississippi Ap 124

Artificial Insemination in Birds:
a Basic Methodology for
the Modem Keeper Ap 127
Safety in Captive Wildlife

Photography May 138

The Short-nosed Echidna at

the L.A. Zoo May 142

New Bird Exhibits at the

Dallas Zoo May 149

AAZPA Professional Management
School— a student's view

May 154

A Method of Predicting Births

in Small Antelope May 156
Exhibit Design Checklist June 169
Reflections on Luama Jun 173

Growing Hydroponic Grass

at the Bronx Zoo Jun 177
Pandas Arrive at the Bronx Jun 180
Interview: M. Kamal Naidu:

Director, National Zoo, India
Jun 181

A Note on the Behavior of

Captive Nilgiri Langurs Jun 185
Egg Weight Loss During Incubation

Jun 189

Zoo News From China Jul 200

Eat Biting in Macropods Jul 203
(Down Under)

Sloughing and Feeding in Captive

Young Russel's Vipers Jul 212
The Breeding of the Asian
Elephant in China
(Elephant Set) Jul 214

The Best Way to Control Environmental
Sanitation and Related Pest
Problems in Zoos Jul 215
Potoroo Palatibility Project Jul 217
Pronghorn Hand-rearing

Protocol Aug 234

Nutrasweet Fundraiser Aug 238
Captive Reproduction of the Bermuda
Rock Lizard or Skink Aug 239
A Survey of Intestinal Parasites in
Wild, Ex-Captive and Captive
Orangutans— Part I Aug 245
Part H Sep 269

Numbat Diet News Oct 310

Lifesaving News for
Zebra Foals Oct 314

Kenya Diary Part 1 Oct 320

Part 2 Nov 355

Parts Dec 461

Husbandry and Behavior of the

Hamerkop at the Dallas Zoo Oct 323
Establishment of a Social Group in

Lion-tailed Macaques Nov 337
Sizing Up Graphics Nov 347

Meet the Waldrapp Nov 357

Illegal Wildlife Trade:

Keep Informed Dec 377

Treatment and Management of
Chronic Foot Problems
In an Indian Rhinoceros Dec 380
White Oak Plantation: Rare Animal
Conservation Center Dec 385
Polar Bear Reproduction
at the Hogle Zoo Dec 388

Hand-Raising an Andean Condor

at the Potawatomi Zoo Dec 39 1
Hand-rearing and Reintroduction

of a Mandrill Baboon Dec 397

530

AKF Papers Indexed bv Month

Continued

How We Keep Our Gorillas Occupied
Dec 401

Notes on the Management of Fisher
at Burnet Park Zoo Dec 404
Husbandry of the Giant Anteater
at Reid Park Zoo Dec 415

Growth and Development of a

Tamandua at Lincoln Park Dec 419
A New Zookeeper Association

Is Bom Dec 422

Small Antelope Capture

and Restraint Dec 425

The Successful Introduction and
Resocialization of Chimpanzees

Dec 429

Zookeeper and Other Staff Training
in India: Some Pioneer Efforts

Dec 432

Udderly Fantastic: An Overview of
the Mammalian Mammary System
Dec 436

How I Learned to Stop Worrying and
Love My Landscape Architect Dec 44 1
The Nestbuilding Behavior of the
Black and White Ruffed Lemur at
the Miami Metrozoo Dec 446

Spectacled Bear Management at
the Lincoln Park Zoo Dec 458

The International Center for the
Preservation of Wild Animals

Dec 463

Translocation of 1 . 1 Lowland

Gorillas Dec 465

Diet Notebook - the Past
to the Present Dec 470

Management of Freshwater
Gamefish at Milwaukee County Zoo
Dec 474

Destined for Survival: A
Papua New Guinea Expedition

Dec 480

Bats, Beautiful Bats Dec 485

Snow Leopard Breeding and Births
at the Bronx Zoo's Himilayan
Highlands Dec 493

Australasia... a Learning Experience
Dec 500

Management and Breeding of
Tiger Quolls in Captivity Dec 506

p^pgrg indexed fry Subject

Mammals

Fresno's Favorite Elephant
Celebrates 40th Birthday Jan 14
The Natural and Zoological History
of Four Capromid Rodents Jan 25
Survival of Hand-Raised Hoofstock
Feb 60

There's Nothing in this Cage:
Lemming Activity Feb 63

A Preliminary Analysis of Space Use,
Body Orientation and Tail Use In
Captive Ringtail Possums Mar 88

The Collaboration of the Keeper and
the Veterinarian in the Chemical
Restraint of Great Apes by Hand
Syringe Injection Ap 116

One Small Step (Elephant Set)

Ap 119

The Short-nosed Echidna at
the Los Angeles Zoo May 142

A Method of Predicting Births
in Small Antelope May 156

Pandas Arrive at Bronx Zoo Jun 180

A Note on the Behavior of
Nilgiri Langurs Jun 185

Ear Biting in Macropods Jul 203

The Breeding of the Asian
Elephant in China Jul 214

Potoroo Palatibility Project Jul 217
Pronghorn Hand-rearing Protocol

Aug 234

Survey of Intestinal Parasites in
Wild, Ex-captive and Captive
Orangutans Part 1 Aug 245

Part 2 Sep 269

Lifesaving News for
Zebra Foals Oct 314

Establishment of a Social Group
of Lion-Tailed Macaques Nov 337
Treatment and Management of
Chronic Foot Problems in an
Indian Rhinoceros Dec 380

Polar Bear Reproduction at
the Hogle Zoo Dec 388

Hand-rearing and Reintroduction
of a Mandrill Baboon Dec 397

How We Keep Our Gorillas
Occupied Dec 401

Management of the Fisher at
Burnet Park Zoo Dec 404

Husbandry of the Giant Anteater
at Reid Park Zoo Dec 415

Growth & Development of a
Tamandua at Lincoln Park Dec 419
Small Antelope Capture
and Restraint Dec 425

The Successful Introduction and
Resocialization of Chimpanzees

Dec 429

Udderly Fantastic: An Overview
of the Mammalian Mammary System
Dec 436

The Nestbuilding Behavior of the
Black and White Ruffed Lemur
at the Miami Metrozoo Dec 446

Spectacled Bear Management at
the Lincoln Park Zoo Dec 458

Translocatrion of 1.1
Lowland Gorillas Dec 465

Snow Leopard Breeding and Births
in the Bronx Zoo's Himilayan
Highlands Dec 493

Australasia... A Learning Experience
Dec 500

Management & Breeding of

Tiger Quolls in Captivity Dec 506

531

Birds

Artificial Insemination in Birds:

A Basic Methodology for the
Modem Keeper Ap 127

New Bird Exhibits at the
Dallas Zoo May 149

Egg Weight Loss

During Incubation Jun 189

Husbandry and Management of the
Hamerkop at the Dallas Zoo Oct 323
Meet the Waldrapp Nov 357

Hand-raising an Andean Condor
at the Potawatomi Zoo Dec 371
Destined for Survival: A Papua
New Guinea Expedition Dec 480
Australasia... A Learning
Experience Dec 500

Amphifriang/Reptilgg/Figh

Sloughing and Feeding in Captive
Young Russel's Vipers Jul 212

Captive Reproduction of the
Bermuda Rock Lizard or Skink

Aug 239

Management of Freshwater Gamefish
at the Milwaukee County Zoo Dec 474

Edpcatipn

Sizing Up Graphics Nov 347

Illegal Wildlife Trade:

Keep Informed Dec 377

Zookeeper and Other Staff Training in
India: Some Pioneer Efforts Dec 432
Bats, Beautiful Bats
(Children's Musical Program)

Dec 485

Resea r c h

A Preliminary Analysis of Space Use,
Body Orientation and Tail Use in
Captive Ringtail Possums Mar 88
A Method of Predicting Births
in Small Antelope May 156

Egg Weight Loss

During Incubation Jun 189

Potoroo Palatibility Project Jul 217
Pronghorn Hand-rearing
Protocol Aug 234

A Survey of Intestinal Parasites in
Wild, Ex-captive and Captive
Orangutans Part I Aug 245

Part II Sep 269

Polar Bear Reproduction at
the Hogle Zoo Dec 388

Growth & Development of a
Tamandua at Lincoln Park Dec 419
Nestbuilding Behavior of Black and
White Ruffed Lemur at Miami Metrozoo

Dec 446

Snow Leopard Breeding and
Births at the Bronx Zoo's
Himilayan Highlands' Dec 493

Breeding and Management of
Tiger Quolls in Captivity Dec 506

Conservation

Developing Zoos

Mar

77

Illegal Wildlife Trade:

Keep Informed

Dec

377

White Oak Plantation: Rare

Animal Conservation Center

Dec

385

Kenya Diary Part 1

Oct 320

Part 2

Nov

355

Part 3

Dec

461

International Center for the
Preservation of Wild Animals

Dec 463

Destined for Survival: A Papua
New Guinea Expedition Dec 480

Exhibits /Exhibit Design
A First... East of the Mississippi

Ap 124

New Bird Exhibits at
the Dallas Zoo May 149

Exhibit Design Checklist Jun 169

Sizing Up Graphics Nov 347

How I Learned To Stop Worrying
and Love My Landscape Architect

Dec 461

Management of Freshwater Gamefish
at the Milwaukee County Zoo Dec 474

Hpsbandry

Evaluating Forage Fed

to Exotic Animals Ap 1 14

Growing Hydroponic Grass

at the Bronx Zoo Jun 177

Numbat Diet News Oct 310

The Best Way to Control Environmental

Sanitation and Other Pest Problems

in Zoos Jul 215

Diet Notebook - the Past to

the Present Dec 470

Narrative

No Lion: Creative Marketing
Lives in Tulsa (Blues Bros.) Feb 53
Developing Zoos Mar 77

Having a Ball With
Beetlemania Ap 112

Safety in Captive Wildlife
Photography May 138

AAZPA Professional Management
School-a student’s view May 154

Reflections on Luama Jun 173

Nutrasweet Fundraiser Aug 238

A New Zookeeper Association
Is Bom Dec 422

532

Miscellaneous

Interview: M. Kamal Naidu,

Director, National Zoo, India Jun 181
How I Learned To Stop Worrying and
Love My Landscape Architect Dec 461
Bats, Beautiful Bats Dec 485

Dec 485

AAZK Accessories Available from National

PINS AND CHARMS: Enameled three-quarter inch pins and charms with the official
AAZK logo are done in the same colors as the AAZK patch. The charms are suitable for
necklaces. Price per pin or charm is $3.50 ,

PATCHES: AAZK Patches are available for $3.00 each.

CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS: The following issues available at the prices listed.

1981 Fresno National Conference $2.00

1983 Philadelphia National Conference $2.00

1984 Seattle National Conference $2.00

1985 Miami National Conference $3.50

1986 Winnipeg National Conference $4.00

1987 Milwaukee National Conference $7.00

81,83,84,85,86,87 National Conference Proceedings Package $15.00

Above Items Available PREPAID ONLY

INDIVIDUAL BACK ISSUES OF ANIMAL KEEPERS' FORU M (if available) $2.00 per
issue. Contact The Editor with requests for specific issues.

ZOOKEEPING AS A CAREER BROCHURES: $10.00 per 100 plus postage. Send requests
to National Headquarters and you will be billed for brochures and postage. (For a
single copy, send a self-addressed, stamped, legal-sized envelope.)

533

Notice to Members on Membership Renewal Procedures

Over the years there seems to have been a considerable amount of
confusion on the membership renewal process, especially in reference to
how long a member is maintained on the AKF mailing list before being
dropped. Hopefully the following outline will help explain the renewal
process and if this format is followed by renewing members, there should
be no interruption in their AAZK /AKF mailings.

1. Three months before a member's expiration date, a card notifying them
of their need to renew their AAZK membership is sent.

2. At the beginning of the month in which an individual's membershp is
to expire, they are sent a "Final Reminder" card. If the member renews
within the expiration month, there is no interruption in mailings. If a
member fails to renew within that month, their name will be dropped off
the active computer mailing list and they WILL NOT receive the next
month’s issue of AKF . (i.e. if you are due to renew in July and do not do
so, you will not receive the August issue.)

3. If a member renews his/her membership after the expiration date, they
will be reactivated on the mailing list. HOWEVER, depending on what
time during the month the renewal is received, that person may end up
missing up to two copies of the Forum . We have a cutoff date with our
mailing service to provide them with the current label mailing list. If the
renewal comes in after that date, that name will not be added to the list
until the next month. This cutoff date is normally the 27-28th of each
month as we try to have the current AKF in the mail the first Friday of
each month.

4. After a member is dropped from the mailing list for (1) failure to renew
or (2) failure to notify National Headquarters of an address change, and
subsequently renews, they are NOT sent back issues which they may have
missed due to late renewal or failure to notify National of an address
change. These missed issues may be purchased for $2.00 per copy, but
will not be sent free.

5. Members are also reminded that the Association pays 30 cents return
postage due for each AKF we receive back from the post office because of
an outdated address. It is VERY important that members send in address
changes ASAP to avoid this expense to AA.ZK. We want you to receive all
your mailings in a timely fashion, but we need you help. Your prompt
reply to your renewal notice and/or notification of address changes is
greatly appreciated.

Prompt Renewal Sa vres AAZK Time and Money

and Assures You Current Mailings

534

9

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 will 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.

DEADLINE 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.

WASHINGTON , DC 20008

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