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REPORT OF THE CONSERVATION WORK GROUPParticipants :-
The working group met on three separate occasions. There was active participation by the group members leading to a lively discussion. I am pleased to present our consensus as follows: Objectives It was agreed that the objective of the group was to determine how zoos can more actively link ex-situ with in-situ conservation and make their participation in Conservation more meaningful. 1. Conservation breeding * Conservation breeding is a support, not a substitute, for species conservation in the wild.* Prioritize species for conservation breeding programmes : Species selected should be done on a country by country basis and according to the institutions’ capabilities.* Release programmes :- a. Ensure sufficient attention is given to technicalities of reintroduction.b. SEAZA should ensure that the Guidelines of the IUCN Reintroduction Specialist Group are translated into local languages and distributed to all zoos. c. Start with non-dangerous, non-destructive, [that public perceives as safe and likes] animals (Thamin deer programme in Burma, Small mammal programme in Singapore, Red squirrel and British field cricket programme in UK, Yellow-footed rock wallaby in Australia, etc.) d. Be in line with national level policies and programmes of rehabilitation of habitats. 2. Partnerships The aim of partnership is to enhance Zoos’ credibility and image in the field of international conservation.* Co-operation with and support for wildlife departments and agencies :- a. Sharing expertise. b. Training. c. Promote wildlife agencies programmes to the public. d. Respond to requests for assistance with relocation of problem animals. * Ecotourism : zoos must be seen alongside wildlife conservation as supporting national policy responsible for ecotourism in economic development (eco-development). * Institutions such as Universities, Research Institutes, National Zoological surveys, Museums, etc. are also sources of scientific information and should be allowed facilities in the Zoo for research. 3. Public education and awareness programmes * School programmes. * Public education including outreach to decision and policy-makers, industry, etc. Statistics (of the magnitude of habitat destruction, unsustainable development, loss of biodiversity, etc.). Disseminate information via good signages, graphics, information packs, brochures, etc.* Responsible media involvement through good reporting, well written articles, focus on threats on environment etc. 4. Protection and restoration of habitat and biodiversity * Zoos should take a pro-active approach toward identifying vulnerable areas of legally unprotected forest and degraded land converting them into conservation areas with community participation and benefits linked with Biodiversity Convention objectives. * Establish conservation funds for zoos to participate in in situ conservation. Recommendation The group agreed that the conservation agendas in zoos should be grouped under four main heads, ie. :- 1. Conservation breeding. 2. Partnership. 3. Public education and awareness programmes. 4. Protection and restoration of habitat and biodiversity.
Lyn de Alwis Chairman Conservation Working Group |
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