Conservation

An Indian Rhinoceros in Amersfoort Zoo

ICZ represents a resource of over 6000 keepers worldwide. Zookeepers have a large range of specialized skills and knowledge that can be harnessed for conservation work not only involving conservation breeding of threatened species in zoos and wildlife parks but which can extend into work in the field.

These talents include good observation and identification skills, intimate knowledge of animal behavior, animal handling skills, recording of scientific information and good physical fitness for undertaking strenuous work in the field.

Keepers also have a passion which has driven many conservation programs. Examples include assisting wild conservation to preserve endangered species by offering practical solutions to the killing of local wildlife for food or income. This is done by creating educational programs within communities and offering alternative income or food sources that do not comprise the local wildlife.

Penguins in Seaworld

Examples include the Painted Dog program where a keeper has set up a fundraising program to hire rangers and create local awareness, protect habits and undertake scientific research.

Tenkile Program aims to work with locals in Papua New Guinea to establish conservation areas and establish alternate food sources to the endangered tree kangaroos. Keepers have been involved in field work as well as fundraising for this project.
Visit tenkile.com for more information.

Snow Leopards by promoting the sale of goods within zoo shops and fundraising by keeper groups to help provide money for local education and research to protect these animals. Visit snowleopard.org for more details.

A Polar Bear in Lincoln Park Zoo

Silvery Gibbon project started by keepers at Pert Zoo is run entirely by volunteers, with 100% of our funds raised going towards the conservation of this endangered species. As well as being the primary supporter of the Javan Gibbon Centre, SGP also support education and capacity building programs in Java. Visit silvery.org.au

Asian Rhino Project (ARP) is a non-profit, volunteer organization raising awareness and support for the three Asian rhinoceros species. The ARP was founded in 2003 by Kerry Crosbie and a small group of fellow Zoo Keepers from Australia.
Visit asianrhinos.org.au for information.

A Polar Bear in Ouwehands' Dierenpark

Polar Bears international is attempting to save this species which will most certainly face extinction due to the impacts of climate change and other pressures. They are the most-visited animals in zoos. People of all ages are entranced by their beauty, their playfulness, and their strength. And for good reason, they have become the iconic symbol of the troubled arctic ecosystem. Keepers are involved in both public education as well involvement with wild researchers. Visit polarbearsinternational.org.

Keepers in Africa helping the Jackass penguin in South Africa.
Visit penguinpromises.com for more information

If you are running or planning a conservation program that you think may be valued added to by involvement of skilled keepers please sent it to us.