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| A picture of the founding members of the International Congress of Zookeepers back in 2000 during the AAZK Conference (Columbus, Ohio). |
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As a result of the meeting, it was believed that a common conference for Zoo Keepers from around the world would not only improve the levels of communication between Keepers from different regions, but also serve as a basis for supporting the development of Zoo Keeping as a profession in regions where professional Zoo Keeping Associations did not currently exist.
The primary objectives for holding a conference for Zoo Keepers at an international level was to promote the development and application of professional animal welfare and husbandry techniques amongst Zoo Keepers, which would in turn benefit the wild animals under their care, and contribute to the conservation of wildlife.
The first International Congress on Zookeeping was held at Avifauna in the Netherlands between the 4th and the 7th October 2003. |
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In the time since the first ICZ, the founding representatives from the seven professional Keeper Associations have agreed to work together in developing the group into a formal Association dedicated to the development of Zoo Keeping as a profession at an international level, and assist the establishment of professional Zoo Keeper Associations in those regions where such groups do not currently exist.
Over 300 Keepers from 27 different countries attended the conference and the variety of workshops, paper presentations and other developmental opportunities which were included in the programme. In addition, the tours to a number of zoological facilities within the region allowed everybody to view "behind the scenes" and experience some of the most modern practices in animal husbandry, exhibit design, and visitor and education facilities.
After the First Congress the ICZ's members decided to continue organising an international congress every 3 years. The second was held in Australia, at the Gold Coast in 2006, and the next one will be in Seattle, USA, in 2009. |
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It was in Australia that the Philipine Association (ZAP) and the African association (AAKA) were invited to assist and became members of ICZ.
The next aims for ICZ is to develop ICZ association to make new projects beyond organising congress. |
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