Zoo Logic (Dr. Grey Stafford)

This week's Zoo Logic episode is a mash-up of researchers, trainers, and news items from around the zoo and aquarium world following the recent professional joint conference for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (www.AZA.org) and the International Marine Animal Trainers' Association (www.IMATA.org) in New Orleans. Past guest Jeremy Hance, writer for (www.Mongabay.com) shares insights into a species few have ever heard of. And, working with another past guest, Dr Jason Bruck, Samantha Sheppard describes new research suggesting dolphins use urine tasting to identify others! Hear from zoo media personality Stephanie Arne (www.stephaniearne.com) about conservation efforts to help the endangered black-footed penguin in need of guano for shelter. Wouter Stellard teases the new multi-species exhibit at the Columbus zoo and aquarium featuring more than a dozen pinnipeds ready in time for next year's annual AZA conference in Columbus.  And Shelley Ballman from Ocean Connections (www.oceansoffun.org) shares why training is so important for animals and their caretakers.

That Sounds Wild: Maned wolf bark. www.endangeredwolfcenter.org.

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This special episode features a series of panel presentations based on recently published peer-reviewed papers about dolphin life expectancy, orca longevity, cetacean dive physiology, and two rebuttals of Marino et al 2019. Panelists Kelly Jaakkola, Kevin Willis, Andreas Fahlman, Heather Hill, Kathleen Dudzinski, & Jason Bruck present data, as well as, commentary on a case study example of a published paper on orca welfare that never should have cleared the peer-review process. Our panel of scientists clarify what we currently know and don't know about two popular species of marine mammals in human care and in the wild across a few key welfare measures. Plus, they discuss at length the problems that occur when previous scientific citations are misused, and unsupported opinion and agendas are passed off as science in peer-reviewed journals.

Animal care Software

Peppermint Narwhal

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ZOOmility

Kelly Jaakkola Dolphin Life Expectancy

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/mms.12601 

Kevin Willis Orca Longevity

Kochanek KD, Murphy SL, Xu JQ, Arias E.  Deaths: Final data for 2017.  National Vital Statistics Reports; vol 68 no 9.  Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics.  2019.

Jett, J. and Ventre, J.  Captive killer whale (Orcinus orca) survival.  Marine Mammal Science, 4:297-311.  2015.

Robeck, T. R., K. Willis, M. R. Scarpuzzi and J. K. O’Brien. 2015. Comparisons of life history parameters between free-ranging and captive killer whale (Orcinus orca) populations for application toward species management. Journal of Mammalogy, 96:1055-1070.

Robeck, T., Jaakkola, K., Stafford G., and Willis, K. Killer whale (Orcinus orca) survivorship in captivity: A critique of Jett and Ventre (2015). Marine Mammal Science, 32, 786–792.  2016.

Andreas Fahlman Dolphin Dive and Respiratory Physiology

Borque Espinosa, A., Burgos, F., Dennison, S., Laughlin, R., Manley, M., Capaccioni, R. and Fahlman, A. (2020). Lung function testing as a diagnostic tool to assess respiratory health in bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus. Diseases of Aquatic Organisms 138, 17-27.

Fahlman, A., Borque-Espinosa, A., Facchin, F., Ferrero Fernandez, D., Muñoz Caballero, P., Haulena, M. and Rocho-Levine, J. (2020). Comparative respiratory physiology in cetaceans. Frontiers Physiology 11, 1-7.

Fahlman, A., Brodsky, M., Miedler, S., Dennison, S., Ivančić, M., Levine, G., Rocho-Levine, J., Manley, M., Rocabert, J. and Borque Espinosa, A. (2019). Ventilation and gas exchange before and after voluntary static surface breath-holds in clinically healthy bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus. Journal of Experimental Biology 222, 1-9.

Fahlman, A., Brodsky, M., Wells, R., McHugh, K., Allen, J., Barleycorn, A., Sweeney, J. C., Fauquier, D. and Moore, M. (2018a). Field energetics and lung function in wild bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, in Sarasota Bay Florida. Royal Society Open Science 5, 171280.

Fahlman, A., Jensen, F., Tyack, P. L. and Wells, R. (2018b). Modeling tissue and blood gas kinetics in coastal and offshore common Bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus. Frontiers Physiology 9, 1-13.

Fahlman, A., Loring, S. H., Levine, G., Rocho-Levine, J., Austin, T. and Brodsky, M. (2015). Lung mechanics and pulmonary function testing in cetaceans Journal of Experimental Biology 218, 2030-2038.

Fahlman, A., McHugh, K., Allen, J., Barleycorn, A., Allen, A., Sweeney, J., Stone, R., Faulkner Trainor, R., Bedford, G., Moore, M. J. et al. (2018c). Resting metabolic rate and lung function in wild offshore common bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, near bermuda. Frontiers in Physiology 9.

Fahlman, A., Moore, M. J. and Garcia-Parraga, D. (2017). Respiratory function and mechanics in pinnipeds and cetaceans. Journal of Experimental Biology 220, 1761-1763.

Thanks to Dr. Randy Wells, Director of the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program and Chicago Zoological Society.

https://www.sarasotadolphin.org/about-us-2/ 

Kathleen Dudzinski & Heather Hill 

Commentary on Marino et al 2019 https://escholarship.org/uc/item/6cj9473p

www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org

https://www.dolphincommunicationproject.org/index.php/about-dolphins/scientific-publications

Jason Bruck

Commentary on Marino et al 2019 https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Jason_Bruck2

Following our conversation with futurist Bob Johansen last week, we assembled a panel of zoo and aquarium thought leaders with diverse backgrounds, interests and organizations, to get their views on what the future may hold for zoological facilities and professionals. Topics include: sharing how they adapted their guest experience, infrastructure, and staffing roles to address the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic upon reopening; the re-focus on smaller, personal interactions among animals, staff, and guests versus large audience events and attractions; and the implications for budgets and revenues now and forever.

Denver Zoo

Indianapolis Zoo

The Dolphin Company (Dolphin Discovery)

Karen Pryor Clicker Training

That Sounds Wild: Smooth-sided toad. Kemah Aquarium.

Animal Care Software

KONG ZOO

American Humane’s new groundbreaking documentary, Escape from Extinction, narrated by Academy Award winner Helen Mirren, showcases the critical efforts certified zoos and aquariums are undertaking to preserve millions of species on the verge of disappearing forever. As the first pro-zoo-and-aquarium documentary of its kind, the film takes viewers on a dramatic trip around the world and through time to explore the roots of the wholesale disappearance of species in our forests and oceans, described by scientists and journalists as a “Sixth Mass Extinction.”

Importantly, however, the film also shows people that there is hope as animal experts, conservationists, animal scientists, veterinarians, bioethicists and others at leading zoological organizations across the globe work feverishly to pull endangered and disappearing species back from the brink. The making of this 90-minute film took many years, passion, and tens of thousands of miles of travel.

From the producers: 

About American Humane

Founded in 1877, American Humane is the country's first national humane organization. For 142 years, the nonprofit has pioneered many of the humane protections we have come to take for granted and today works to save, shelter, feed, and improve the lives of some one billion animals around the world.  With 91 cents of every dollar spent going directly to programs, American Humane has earned Charity Navigator’s highest “Four-Star Rating,” has been named a “Top-Rated Charity” with an “A” rating by both the American Institute of Philanthropy’s CharityWatch and Great Nonprofits, and was awarded the gold level seal from GuideStar USA. The organization has also earned the Independent Charities Seal of Excellence, was awarded inclusion on Better Business Bureau’s prestigious Wise Giving Alliance Accredited Charities list and was designated as a “Best Charity” by Consumer Reports. For more information about American Humane’s lifesaving work, please visit www.AmericanHumane.org.

About MRB Productions

MRB Productions brings inventive stories and inspired imagery to media platforms around the world. Whether producing a commercial, a feature film, television, digital, live sports or an award show, MRB evolves to embrace a project’s specific needs. We are passionate about what we do and committed to being exceptional. MRB’s most recent feature, All I Wish, with Sharon Stone, Tony Goldwyn & Ellen Burstyn, is currently streaming. Our documentary, Back to Life, premiered on ABC and is currently on Amazon Prime. MRB’s latest films, all festival darlings, are available on streaming platforms. These include The Night Stalker with Lou Diamond Phillips, The Truth About Emanuel with Jessica Biel, & Grassroots with Jason Biggs. In Television, MRB has a decade of experience producing the pre-taped segments and VIP program for ESPN’s ESPY Awards, in addition to producing the Hero Dog Awards for the Hallmark Channel. Additional TV projects include two seasons of the mockumentary comedy show Free Radio on VH1 and Comedy Central and the Webby award-winning series, The Confession, starring Kiefer Sutherland. MRB is also known for sports programming for the Longhorn Network. MRB’s commercial repertoire includes a longstanding relationship with Mattel and collaborations with Periera & O’Dell, Saatchi & Saatchi, and Publicis, for clients such as McDonald’s, Pepsi, Mattel, Lay’s, Foot Locker, Samsung, Nerf, NHL, Smirnoff, Wal-Mart, and University of Phoenix. In the video game space, MRB partners with Ubisoft to produce the Just Dance Kids series. For more information, please visit www.mrbproductions.com.

That Sounds Wild: African Pied crow (sort of)

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ZOOmility

Zoo Logic

Director of Conservation for San Antonio zoo, Dr. Dante' Fenolio, says zoos are unique in their ability to take funds designated by families for entertainment and repurpose them for conservation research. This is especially important for overlooked species like the reticulated flatwoods salamander, which his team successfully hatched recently for the first time ever, because zoos are willing to invest time, money, and expertise to preserve unknown, uncharismatic, and endangered species like these and other amphibians. He cautions that conservation biology can't be rushed as this project took eleven years to achieve this breeding success in part because of how little is known about these elusive, mostly subterranean animals.

That Sounds Wild:  Madagascar Hissing Cockroach. Frank Buck Zoo

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Zoo Logic 

Peppermint Narwhal

San Antonio Zoo

China is experiencing tremendous growth in the popularity, number and size of family attractions under development, especially aquariums featuring marine mammals. In recent years, Russia has been a primary source of the larger marine mammal species sent to these major aquarium projects. Against the backdrop of this demand which is projected to grow, scant reports, including one by CBS News late last year, have raised concerns over the status of approximately 100 orcas and beluga whales collected from Russian waters and currently temporarily housed in "cramped and potentially illegal" near shore sea pens on Russia's Pacific east coast near the city of Nakhodka. This situation and the broader implications of these collections raise at least 3 potential concerns for zoological professionals from accredited public display facilities: 1) whether the animals from Russia are being collected humanely and sustainably based upon previously conducted and up to date scientific environmental impact assessments? 2) how well the veterinary care and welfare of the animals while housed in temporary sea pen facilities are being maintained? and 3) whether the long term housing, husbandry, and reproductive plans for larger cetaceans like orcas once they are transferred to China will meet their social, behavioral, and health needs?

To shed light on the situation and help separate fact from fiction, long time amusement park and family entertainment attractions insider, journalist, and blogger, Joe Kleiman, joins us. 

Plus, an all new That Sounds Wild and a personal aloha to an animal friend and teacher.

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/russia-whale-jail-investigated-prosecutors-nakhodka-orca-beluga-whales-held/

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www.finaldaysofwisdom.wordpress.com/2018/10/18/final-days-synopsis-on-the-expanding-future-of-killer-whale-exhibition/

As a species, the odds of survival are stacked against cheetahs.  From habitat loss and fragmentation, high infant mortality rates, poaching for the pet trade, and conflicts with humans Cheetahs face a myriad of threats. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has been supporting cheetah conservation, reproductive research, and public education through its ambassador program for over 20 years. Recently they announced the first ever successful births of cubs conceived through in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer.  The emerging reproductive science, reward-based husbandry training, and trustful bond between animals and zookeepers may just offer a pathway forward to preserve this unique and fragile species.

Peppermint Narwhal

Animal Care Software

Zoo Logic podcast

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Despite being an ancient species, we still have much to learn about sea turtles, in part, because they spend most of their long lives at sea. We usually only hear about them or get a glimpse when the females come onshore a few weeks each spring and early summer to lay eggs or when groups of turtles are trapped in northern waters at the onset of winter in a cold stunning event. Dr. Joe Pfaller, research director for the Caretta Research Project discusses his field research with loggerheads at the Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge off the coast of Savannah, Georgia, the sea turtle conservation role of volunteers and students, and ongoing threats to sea turtle survival.

That Sounds Wild: Clouded Leopard.

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KONG Zoo

Zoo Logic

ZOOmility

Following a personal message of unity to zoo fans and professionals everywhere from Jungle Jack Hanna, the CEO of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) describes the impact of COVID-19 on its nearly 300 member facilities. As the global alliance of regional associations, national federations, zoos and aquariums, dedicated to the care and conservation of animals and their habitats around the world, WAZA is coordinating its messaging and resources with the latest guidelines from the World Health Organization as well as regional and national authorities.

While many businesses may close during this crisis, zoological professionals continue to care for animals, while trying to balance the personal, financial, and health demands of this historic pandemic.

That Sounds Wild: Chorus Frogs.  Frank Buck Zoo

Animal Care Software

Peppermint Narwhal

Columbus Zoo

Kong Zoo

Zoo Logic

The San Diego Zoo Global's Institute for Conservation Research maintains what is called the frozen zoo. For decades, carefully collected and prepared cell samples from over 1000 species, many of them listed as threatened or endangered and nearing extinction, have been stored almost indefinitely in ultra cold freezers.  Recently, the frozen zoo played an instrumental role in the successful cloning of an endangered Przewalski's Horse by providing the genetic material from a long deceased yet underrepresented stallion.

SDZG's Dr. Oliver Ryder has spent his career working to preserve the Przewalski's Horse and many other species through scientifically managed breeding programs and husbandry in human care. However, when the number of individuals in a rare population is very small the natural loss of genetic diversity can't be met or prevented by managed breeding methods alone. Thus, Dr. Oliver describes how  increasing the number of species and individuals from which cells are collected and stored would provide future generations with the option of whether and to what extent assisted reproductive techniques should be used to increase species biodiversity.

That Sounds Wild: African elephant

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Zoo Logic

ZOOmility

First time author Christine Mott has a forthcoming children's book entitled, Free Bird: Flaco the Owl's Dreams Take Flight by Lantern Publishing. The story for kids ages 4 to 8 is based on upon actual events surrounding the Eurasian Eagle Owl that escaped from the Central Park Zoo. The story enthralled people from around the globe as Flaco was recorded across Central Park for over a year before his untimely death. As an attorney Christine also describes her advocacy work on behalf of animals.

Animal Care Software 

Dr. Jay Sweeney, cofounder of Dolphin Quest, returns to discuss the latest strain of avian flu making its way across the globe with lethal effects. It was an avian flu strain that caused the global pandemic in 1918 that killed tens of millions of humans. The current strain H5N5 seems to be mild in infected dairy cows and humans but it has caused thousands of pinniped and a handful of dolphin deaths over the past few seasons as migratory birds move up and down coastlines of North and South America. The strain has already impacted millions of birds on poultry farms and Dr. Sweeney urges zoological facilities to remain vigilant to protect heir avian and marine mammal collections.

Animal Care Software 

Recently, the open access scientific journal Animals published a special issue entitled: Zoo and Aquarium Welfare, Ethics, Behavior.  Many of the peer-reviewed papers within this special issue focus on and in some instances call for improvements to animal welfare assessment, husbandry, training, housing, and overall management. The goal of the invited editors, which includes the host of Zoo Logic, was to highlight advances and current best practices across a range of species, and to inspire further progress, while also addressing public perceptions and expectations of zoos and aquariums. One such paper, "A Reexamination of the Relationship between Training Practices and Welfare in the Management of Ambassador Animals," by lead author, and long time trainer and founder of Natural Encounters, Steve Martin and veterinarian and researcher, Dave Miller (and yours truly) examines the history and current state of ambassador animal welfare and the need for choosing the right species and individual animals for such programs (and avoiding the wrong ones). The authors make no secret that animal ambassador welfare has generally not kept pace with other advancements in zoo animal well being. It is vital that zoological facilities devote the necessary resources in terms of time, money, animal selection, and staff training to properly handle and ensure the best welfare outcomes for these animals with a unique role.

Animal Care Software

In a zoological podcast first, the hosts of 4 animal training and welfare related shows, including Zoo Logic, join together to discuss how their respective programs came about, future goals, as well as, content similarities and differences. Guests include Ryan Cartlidge of The Animal Training Academy podcast, Shane Corbett of the recently launched Animal Behavior Conversations podcast from the Animal Behavior Management Alliance (ABMA), and Ari Bailey and Chris Jenkins from The Natural Encounters, Inc., Training and Education Center (TEC) Talk podcast.

Animal Care Software

The National Marine Mammal Foundation has been studying chronic effects from the Deepwater Horizon disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, one of the largest oil spills in history. The NMMF's Director of Medicine, Dr. Forrest Gomez describes some of the findings from field research and wild population assessments on cetacean health and reproduction, particularly for bottlenose dolphins. The data shows dolphins are still experiencing toxic effects more than 10 years later with some populations not expected to recover for decades.

That Sounds Wild: Squirrel monkey. Frank Buck Zoo.

Peppermint Narwhal

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Zoo Logic

For more than 50 years, the American Association of Zoo Keepers has been pursuing excellence in animal care, sharing best practices, providing professional development workshops and conferences, and raising serious dollars for the support of conservation organizations in the field helping to preserve endangered species like rhinos and cheetahs. AAZK members have also planted over 100k trees! AAZK's individual members cover the range of zoological expertise from keepers to aquarists, trainers to vet techs, while covering every species in-between. Through the contributions of over 100 local chapters across the U.S and Canada, AAZK has raised more than $7M from its popular Bowling for Rhinos fundraisers over several years. Best of all, AAZK memberships are open to students and professionals alike. James Weinpress, AAZK Communication Committee Chair joins us.

All new Ms. Mallory Minute: The Narwhal.

Sounds Wild: Momma Beaver to pup. Thanks to http://conservationambassadors.org

http://aazk.org

https://aazk.org/what-is-bowling-for-rhinos/

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Going on an African safari is a dream for many but what should travelers know about their destination before booking with a tour operator?  We spoke to the team from Rickshaw Travels Rwanda about the growth of sustainable ecotourism in the small mountainous country as well as other popular East African locations. While there are many similarities among range countries, each differs not only by the number and type of species and ecosystems, but also in their respective travel infrastructure, capacity, and cost of accommodations.

Animal Care Software

Bill Street, Sr VP at Indianapolis Zoo describes attending the recently concluded International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress held in Marseilles, France.  The IUCN is organized by taxa to address global preservation issues affecting the survival of animal, plant and fungi species. It publishes the well known Red List database which lists species according to their current population status such as endangered,  threatened or least concern. The work to assess thousands of wild species is largely conducted by volunteers, so the Indianapolis Zoo has formed and funded the Global Center for Species Survival to help support IUCN committees. This center includes several paid positions for conservation coordinators whose purpose is to assist IUCN committees.

That Sounds Wild: Rhinoceros Hornbill and Pesquet's Parrot.  Dallas World Aquarium

Animal Care Software

KONG Zoo

Zoo Logic

ZOOmility

Kong Zoo is a new platform where animal professionals can realize significant savings for themselves and their animal facilities when purchasing enrichment items. As the name suggests, the company is focused on an underserved segment of the animal training and enrichment world: large zoological (and equine) species. Since its creation about a year ago, the company has introduced new, larger  animal products with more styles and sizes under development. Recently, they launched a fundraiser assistance program to help struggling organizations stretch their enrichment budgets.

That Sounds Wild: Jaguar.  Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park.

Animal Care Software

Zoo Logic

A recent peer-reviewed paper discussed the concept and procedure known as errorless learning and compares its efficacy training dogs to that of the more typical trial-and-error approach to learning. One of the authors of the paper: Comparing Trial-and-Error to Errorless Learning Procedures in Training Pet Dogs a Visual Discrimination, Dr. Eduardo "Eddie" Fernandez discusses the process and its favorable impact on the subjects' frustration, behavior acquisition rate, and failure compared to trial and error learning.  The goal is to uncover ways to minimize any harmful effects on animal welfare during the learning process.

Animal Care Software

With so many people inside and outside the zoological community paying attention to the Lolita/Toki killer whale story this past year, it was natural for there to be questions about her care, housing, training and future habitat. As events and confusing communications surrounding this beloved animal unfolded up to and including her sudden passing, questions about the role of trade associations like the International Marine Animal Trainers' Association (IMATA) emerged. Michael Hunt has been an active member of IMATA for decades including serving as its Board President on two occasions. He describes the process and narrow scope of IMATA accreditation of trainer development programs compared to other trade associations that accredit entire facilities, infrastructure, and operations. What are an organization's communications obligations to its individual members and what is their oversight role when circumstances like the one involving Lolita warrant increased scrutiny?

Animal care Software

Travel along the old route 66 west of Flagstaff and you'll find the historic town of Williams, Arizona, home of a unique zoo called Bearizona. It features a drive through section with dozens of black bears, bison, and other species native to ponderosa pine country. During a recent visit we learned how the animal team uses operant conditioning and their "enrichment truck" to safely manage and monitor groups of big animals living in extra large spaces. 

Next we talk with Kolmården Wildlife Park's training coordinator, Peter Giljam about his work sharing animal training best practices and innovative behavioral applications across zoo species. His career training animals spans dozens of aquatic, terrestrial, and avian species  at facilities in Canada and Europe. He's been in the unique position to unite and inspire keepers and trainers from around the globe regardless of cultural, language, or species experience differences, and he is the creative force behind ZooSpensfull.com, a site dedicated to sharing trainer knowledge and stories.

Plus an all new Zoos News and That Sounds Wild.

www.Bearizona.com

www.zoospensefull.com

www.iReinforce.com

www.kolmarden.com/sprak/english

www.peppermintnarwhal.com

Dr. Terrie Williams is a research physiologist with a passion for studying species, particularly large predators, found in some of the most extreme habitats on earth. Her work endeavors to understand the energy requirements these challenging conditions present, as well as, the unique behavioral and physiological adaptations that animals like polar bears, killer whales, and narwhals use to satisfy those demands. In an era of rapid climate change, this data is critical for preserving species already living on the edge.

That Sounds Wild: Gray Wolves

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Zoo Logic

ZOOmility

For more than 30 years, Steve Martin has created complex and conservation minded free-flight bird shows for zoological facilities across the globe. He trains animals and zoo professionals with positive reinforcement and believes in preparing them for the chaos of the real world by not "training in a vacuum."  Steve believes in making one's own luck by taking chances, being willing to try something new, and embracing the value of making mistakes and learning from them. He recently was asked by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) to develop new welfare standards for animal ambassador programs.

According to the NEI website: Natural Encounters, Inc. has served more than 120 facilities in over 20 countries, offering expertise in animal training, staff training, educational program production and presentation, exhibit design, and enrichment. With innovative, industry-leading technology, the NEI team of trainers has worked with hundreds of species of animals and has taught the art and science of behavior change to thousands of people.

Our goal is threefold: to Engage, Inspire, and Empower audiences and animal professionals all over the world by teaching the art of training and the science of behavior change.

That Sounds Wild: squirrel monkeys. Zoospensefull

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Peppermint Narwhal 

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iReinforce.com

Less than 24 hours after the near category 5 strength hurricane Ian made landfall in southwestern Florida, Zoological Disaster Response, Rescue, and Recovery (ZDR3) executive director, Julia Wagner, was already booked on a flight to help the region's zoos and aquariums. Julia describes the consortium of over 100 zoological facilities nationwide who have signed on to lend assistance, staffing, expertise, and other resources whenever facilities request help following natural and made-made disasters or incidents. This mutual help is offered freely among zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries, and exotic animal businesses independent of various trade affiliations. Joining in the effort to help ensure the mental well-being of animal professionals whose work and home lives have been disrupted is GRAZE, Growing Resiliency for Aquarium and Zoo Employees.

Animal Care Software

KONG Zoo

Zoo Logic

Known for its snarky videos and scathing websites directed at exposing animal rights groups, Berman and Co may have new leadership, but its purpose remains: speaking truth to power and revealing the hypocrisy of those bent on eliminating zoos, aquariums and animals in human care. The organization's new executive director, Jack Hubbard, discusses their new website  EnvironmentandWelfare.com, which includes easy to access "activist" profiles, issue briefs, and videos to assist consumers and animal attractions push back on the false narratives promoted by well-funded activist groups.

Animal Care Software

Animal welfare science is a relatively new discipline that has generated some degree of debate among scientists, policymakers, animal professionals, animal rights activists, and the public. Even the meaning of the term animal welfare has been cause for scientific and public debate in part because the conversation often includes qualities such as emotions normally associated with humans being applied to animals. Dr. Isabella Clegg shares her work assessing the welfare of dolphins living in human care, describes the difficulty that language can present when discussing animal welfare, and explains why a simple experiment can demonstrate whether an animal can be considered an optimist or a pessimist.

David Kleven, long time zoological educator and president of Animal Care Software talks about the importance of great animal record-keeping. His Animal Care Software enables zoological, domestic, rescue, and farm animal professionals to utilize today's mobile and cloud technology to record, share, search, and analyze in real time individual animal observations, photos, health, behavior and welfare data. www.AnimalCareSoftware.com.  

Long time animal ambassador, conservationist and past Zoo Logic guest, Julie Scardina shares a new Something I Don't Know About Animals. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/julie-scardina-conservationist-trainer-author/id1385908352?i=1000414292200

www.iReinforce.com

www.facebook.com/ZooLogicpodcast/

@ZooLogicPodcast

@IzziClegg

www.animalwelfareexpertise.com

www.AnimalCareSoftware.com

http://peppermintnarwhal.com

In search of some happier news to amplify, we turned to San Antonio Zoo director, Tim Morrow and American Humane President and CEO, Dr. Robin Ganzert. Tim describes how his local  community responded to support the zoo during the financial hardships posed by COVID-19, so much so, that recently, staff members were reimbursed for lost wages from a year ago.

Robin shares her great news about the passage of the Paws Act, a new federal law that funds the Veterans Administration's pilot project to support the training of more therapy dogs for service men and women. 

That Sounds Wild: Safari Ants

Animal Care Software

KONG Zoo

Zoo Logic

ZOOmility

While most North American zoological parks are still weeks away from the start of their summer high season, a few desert southwest facilities are already deep into their peak season. Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium and Safari Park president Kristy Hayden returns to discuss the latest additions to their collection including a baby giraffe and an all new tiger habitat. As important as these megafauna are, Kristy insists it is important to look at animal welfare for all their species, especially as the zoo addresses some of the older original portions of the facility. Standards are different from the zoo's earliest days more than 40 years ago and it is important to keep up with those changes with improved construction materials and better designs, especially in a desert climate. Plus, we discuss the looming veterinary crisis with declining numbers of large animal clinicians entering the field with Dr. Dani Revers.

Animal Care Software

It's part two of our animal welfare research panel of experts from the recent meeting of the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums held at SeaWorld of Florida. First up is researcher, Dr Jason Bruck describing his diverse study interests including the first published evidence that dolphins utilize urine to identify conspecifics--an extraordinary finding making national and international news and even a mention in Stephen Colbert's monologue on the Late Show! Also featured are scientists, Dr Kathleen Dudzinski and Dr. Heather Hill to discuss animal welfare and the future of the marine mammal community.

Animal Care Software

KONG Zoo

Zoo Logic

What is good animal welfare and how do we measure it? Sabrina Brando, Animal Welfare Coordinator for the World Association of Zoos & Aquariums, talks with Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford about WAZA's work to increase collaboration among animal facilities and professionals to improve the lives of all animals across the globe. 

Also, a breaking Zoos News extended update with Marine Mammal veterinarian, Dr. Lydia Staggs on the Red Tide crisis along SW Florida's coastline harming thousands of animals including endangered turtles, manatees, and dolphins and what marine mammal professionals at SeaWorld and elsewhere are doing to help. 

Plus an all new That Sounds Wild.

After 15 months of constant care to restore JJ the gray whale calf to health and to prepare her for life in the wild, the complex day to return her back to the sea had arrived. Marine mammal expert Keith Yip describes the apprehension he and his team experienced as they attempted to safely transport the largest living creature in history.  

Plus, a moment to remember the passing of a marine mammal medicine and science icon, Dr. Sam Ridgway.

Animal Care Software

KONG Zoo

Zoo Logic

ZOOmility

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium announced the significant birth of several weedy seadragons.  It is the first successful birth of these uncommon animals at Columbus, one of only a handful of institutions that have successfully bred seadragons.  Senior Aquarist Aaron Jeskie, who was instrumental in the successful outcome, describes these unique creatures and some of the reasons they are so challenging to display and maintain.

Animal Care Software

With so many competing outside voices claiming to know what is best for the 57-year-old orca named Toki, we knew it was important to better understand the unique individual behind the stage name Lolita by those who actually cared for her daily for decades. Experienced animal professionals Heather Keenan and Marni Wood spent decades at Miami Seaquarium caring for and building relationships based on trust with Toki. They describe this impressive animal's strengths and significant limitations in accepting disruptions to her routine, companions, and habitat to the point of shutting down mentally and physically at even modest changes. Their hope is to sit down with all the stakeholders that will determine Toki's fate and discuss why, much like Keiko before her, moving this elderly animal across country to a sea pen and separating her from her human family will needlessly place her welfare and life in jeopardy.

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Truth 4 Toki

After years of delays due to scheduling, hurricanes, and COVID, the long discussed combined conference of trainers from the Animal Behavior Management Alliance (ABMA) and the International Marine Animal Trainers' Association (IMATA) is underway in Atlanta.  Zoo Logic is live with two of the organizations' long time leaders, Nicki Boyd, Curator of Applied Behavior from San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and Will Elgar, Director of ZOO Miami. While animal training in applied zoo and aquarium settings will always be the primary focus of these groups, both leaders recognize the growing importance and industry influence their alliance of behaviorists have on the global zoological community. 

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Jungle Jack Hanna, Emmy Award winning host of Into the Wild joins Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford to talk about his love for animals and the important role of zoos and aquariums as "arks" to save wildlife and wild places. From his humble beginnings cleaning cages as a kid, Jack describes his 40-year zoo career and the tremendous growth of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the adventures of filming all over the globe, and his focus on "filming with respect."  

Plus the latest Zoos News, a new Ms Mallory Minute with national spokesperson Mallory Lindsay of MsMalloryAdventures.com, and an all new That Sounds Wild.

Animal trainer Stephanie Mantilla has a new book How to Clicker Train Your Cat, which draws upon her many years working with exotic animals including cheetahs, hoofed animals, primates, and even elephant shrews! While COVID and raising a toddler may have put her client work on hold temporarily, Stephanie continues to encourage cat owners to refrain from labeling their pets as stubborn in favor of recognizing and appreciating the behavioral and natural history differences between cats and dogs. While dogs tend to be more social, most cat species are solitary which has a dramatic impact on their behavior and interest in play and learning.

That Sounds Wild: Cheetah purr

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The historic wildfires underway across Australia threaten the existence of some of the most iconic species on earth. The fires have already consumed thousands of homes over a total area nearly equal to the size of the state of Indiana. Scientist estimate over 1 billion animals may have perished to date, including tens of thousands of individual animals from already threatened and endangered species such as the koala.

Giving a firsthand account of the areas, species and critical habitats affected is Australian trainer, behavior consultant, and wildlife conservationist Jade Fountain.

Also joining us is James Biggs with an update on how member facilities of the Zoo and Aquarium Association of Australasia are working to rescue and rehabilitate injured and orphaned wildlife, with the goal to eventually return them in the coming months or years to recovered habitats. He describes ZAA's 3-phase plan for zoological facilities to address not only the immediate crisis but the long term care, assessment, and recovery of individuals, species, and habits, which in some cases may take several generations.

For information on how Australia's zoos and aquariums are responding to the fires or to contribute to efforts to help affected wildlife visit: https://www.zooaquarium.org.au/

That Sounds Wild: baby giraffe eating.  Frank Buck Zoo

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Dr. Jeremy Goodman President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium returns to discuss the organization's rural 1000 acre offsite conservation center. Originally acquired to facilitate African elephant breeding and closed to the public, the International Conservation Center (ICC) has added a few additional species and developed educational programming and other recreational activities to meet the needs of its rural farm community neighbors as well as school kids and families from the greater Pittsburgh area. The future of the facility includes developing conservation breeding programs for additional colder climate exotic and native species.

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As the oldest animal welfare organization in the US, American Humane and its CEO Dr. Robin Ganzert work to improve welfare across the companion, military, farm, entertainment, and zoological animal world. As the SARS-CoV-2 spread continues to affect the lives of animals and people around the globe, American Humane is stepping up to provide online materials and support to organizations and animals in need. Dr. Ganzert discusses how the current pandemic is more evidence of how humans have violated the social contract we have with animals and that we must do better to share humane values and practices around the nation and the world.

Plus last week's guest, University of Minnesota veterinary epidemiologist, Dr. Dominic Travis joins us again to discuss the late breaking news about a tiger at the Bronx zoo that tested positive for COVID-19 and what the implications are for zoo and domestic animals. Rather than a reason to panic, Dr. Travis says this incident highlights the important and longstanding scientific role of modern zoos and aquariums as sentinels for zoonotic disease. He argues that zoological facilities and professionals play an integral part of the broader public health community to curb this pandemic and to monitor, prepare for, and mitigate future ones.

That Sounds Wild: Clouded Leopard.  Frank Buck Zoo

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Bronx Zoo info on tiger testing positive for COVID-19

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Long time Moorpark College professor Gary Wilson joins Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford to discuss the Exotic Animal Training and Management program, America's oldest professional zookeeping academic curriculum. Gary describes the early history of EATM at Moorpark first as a student and now as a long serving professor. Students develop advanced skills and gain practical experience  learning and working at a functioning public zoo with about 130 animals. Gary and Grey discuss the evolution of zookeeping as a multidisciplinary and science-based career that is increasingly reliant on applied animal training principles.

Plus the latest Zoos News, an all new Ms. Mallory Minute with national spokesperson and wildlife adventurer, Mallory Lindsay, and an all new That Sounds Wild.

The International Elephant Foundation turns 25 this year and the conservation organization continues to break new ground in preserving the world's largest land mammal. Conservation Coordinator, Sarah Conley describes the three species of elephants and the unique challenges to their respective survival. From working with local communities to support the work of game rangers, supporting research for the study and prevention of deadly EEHV to piloting the training and use of feral dogs as detection and protection canines, IEF excels at reducing overhead expenses and thus, maximizing the effectiveness of donations in the field where they can do the most good to help animals and humans successfully co-exist.

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According to the book, Dark Horse, society has systems of education and employment management that require us "to be the same as everyone else, only better." As designed, these systems are a zero-sum game with only limited opportunities for a few. Thus, these systems leave "most of us feeling disengaged, frustrated, and yearning for something more personal and authentic." Harvard researcher and Dark Horse coauthor Dr. Ogi Ogas discusses how real life dark horses are able to attaining personal fulfillment and professional success, not by following the standardize systems of society, but by tapping into each individual's micro-motives and then being willing to make decisions in the moment that reflect who they truly are. Achieving greater fulfillment is not about taking the standard pathway towards some long term goal, nor does it require the dark horse to be endowed with marvelous gifts. The dark horse mindset involves harnessing each person's individuality, not society's systems bent on conformity, in pursuit of personal satisfaction in order to achieve professional excellence.

As part of the Dark Horse Project at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, researchers focused on many different individuals including several animal professionals including marine mammal trainers like former Zoo Logic guest, Ken Ramirez.

Also, to celebrate World Penguin Day, we're joined by a penguin expert from SeaWorld San Diego to discuss the current status of these iconic flightless birds, as well as, SeaWorld's rich history and contributions to species other than orcas, dolphins, and sea lions.

Mallory Lindsay shares another Ms Mallory Minute on the unusual Hagfish.

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On the heels of 2023's Secrets of the Octopus, award-winning and best-selling author, Sy Montgomery returns to discuss her latest title, What the Chicken Knows from Atria Books. As with all of her books about animals and Nature, Sy does her research.  In this case much of her source material came from decades of raising, observing, and learning from chickens... and those that love and study them. As a prolific and successful writer, Sy offers some suggestions to listeners who think about writing their own book. Animal professionals and fans will appreciate her long list of titles covering dolphins, apes, big cats, turtles, humming birds and many more species, plus her full support for the zoological community and its vital impact on conservation.

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Just as the scope of the COVID 19 pandemic was becoming clear, the animal team at OdySea Aquarium realized their latest black-footed penguin hatchling was not achieving normal developmental milestones. While she was otherwise healthy and growing, the team observed "Rosie" was not progressing in her ability to stand or walk. Despite the impact COVID had on staffing, operations and the temporary closure of the aquarium, the team was committed to improving the mobility of this special penguin. Director of Animal Care and Education, Jess Peranteau and Animal Care Manager, Mary Mills discuss the creative steps and penguin onesie the team devised to strengthen Rosie's legs and introduce her to the rest of the colony, adoring children with special needs, and the national media.

That Sounds Wild: Blue Penguin

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Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the International Marine Animal Trainers' Association has recently published a decade-by-decade account of major contributions by its members to research, conservation, strengthening the human-animal bond, husbandry, and veterinary medicine through advancements in animal training.  Michael Hunt, a long time zoological professional with decades of engagement with the organization at all levels of its leadership, discusses IMATA's history and future, including an upcoming first-ever joint conference with the Animal Behavior Management Alliance.

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With a family legacy of rewilding the Eastern Cape region of South Africa, Paul Gardiner has always had a close relationship with Africa's Wildlife and an affinity for filming. Together with his business partner, media executive and content producer Barbara Bellini, they have launched a new content platform on YouTube called Wildlens. This channel in beta testing is designed for those budding storytellers working in the field protecting, preserving, studying, and educating others about Nature and the amazing creatures found in it. Their stated mission is to unite people and animals, ignite engagement, and grow an enormous community passionate about our planet!

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On a cold day sixteen years ago, a months old bottlenose dolphin calf was severely entangled by a crab trap. Thanks to a quick thinking fisherman notifying rescuers, the young animal was eventually freed from the strangling ropes and taken to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium for recovery. The constriction of blood flow to her tail led to the loss of her flukes and marked the beginning of an extraordinary tale of survival and perseverance by a small cetacean the world would eventually come to know thanks to a Hollywood film. The aquarium's Animal Care Program Manager, Robin Curry describes the life and recent passing of this animal ambassador and the generosity of prosthetic engineers who developed the technology to handle the harsh marine environment that enabled Winter to thrive despite her disability.

That Sounds Wild: Screamers.

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Three leaders behind some of today's top animal record-keeping software management systems discuss their joint effort to establish data portability as the new standard for zoos, aquariums and related organizations. On the surface, David Kleven, Mark Simmons and Tony Niemann are competitors in the electronic animal record-keeping arena. Behind the scenes, however, these three recognize the greater purpose for their collaboration when it comes to seamlessly sharing critical animal data profiles to foster better individual and species level understanding and care. 

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Animal Data Sharing

We visited the Odysea Aquarium's third annual Conservation Expo featuring animal, research, higher education, and conservation related organizations working throughout the state of Arizona to preserve terrestrial and aquatic species and habitat at home and around the world. The free public event is part of the aquarium's education mission designed to increase awareness and support of nonprofit groups working in the community.

Part 1 guests include Reid Park Zoo, Phoenix Zoo, and Arizona State University.

That Sounds Wild: barn Owl.  Frank Buck Zoo.

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Friend of the podcast, Dr. Hendrik Nollens describes his new role as VP of Conservation Medicine and Science at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center. In addition to responding to marine mammal stranding events along the entire coastline of Orange County, the PMMC has an ongoing role in public education, original wildlife research, as well as, assisting wild animals, particularly large cetaceans, entangled by ropes and other fishing debris. Dr. Nollens sees advancements in veterinary medicine and animal husbandry science developed in zoological facilities being increasingly utilized proactively to intervene with wild animals, including endangered species, at risk from injury or illness. 

That Sounds Wild: Reeves muntjac. Frank Buck Zoo.

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On a recent extended visit to a zoo, one topic that arose among some of the keeper staff concerned the individual animal well-being pros and cons of hand-rearing predator species versus managing them as parent-raised animals. Historically, many zoos have preferred to let young predatory species, especially elusive felines, be reared entirely by the parent, with minimal contact with human caregivers. As part of long term conservation goals that included the possibility of reintroducing zoo born animals to their original ranges, this husbandry management practice made sense in order to avoid habituation to human beings and activities during critical learning periods. However, even in wealthier nations with ample resources and oversight, the reintroduction, or merely the preservation of existing predator populations like wolves, in the wild has been plagued with setbacks, modest results, and public resistance.

As society sorts out global land-use policies and struggles to find better ways to reduce human-animal conflicts, should our zoological animal management strategies be adapted, at least for the foreseeable future, to reflect this reality? In our noble quest to achieve a conservation dream of future species reintroductions, are we sacrificing individual animal welfare today by not doing everything we can to prepare these newborns for a more likely lifetime in managed human care? Our guest, long time zoo curator Suzi Rapp believes the answer to questions like these requires us to gather more scientific data in order balance the conservation needs of the species with the welfare needs of the individual.

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Dedicated to preserving animals uniquely adapted to survive the hottest, driest, and sparsely vegetated desert for which it is named, the Sahara Conservation Fund works to preserve habitat and to reintroduce critically endangered species to the wild. SCF CEO John Watkin describes the organization's successful cooperation among zoos, field biologists, governments and supporters to maintain nationally protected areas and build productive breeding and return programs with species on the brink of extinction, including the once extinct in the wild, scimitar-horned oryx.

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It's part two of our conversation about the future with zoo and aquarium thought leaders from the Denver Zoo, Indianapolis Zoo, Dolphin Discovery, and Karen Pryor Clicker Training. Coinciding with the news that at least 1 major aquarium has decided to close public operations temporarily to reassess its business model in a COVID-19 reality, our panel looks at revenue streams and the need for greater creativity going forward. They also stress the need for organizations to put trade association differences aside and work together, lest all facilities (and as a result, possibly animal welfare) suffer during these troubling public health, travel industry, and economic times.  

That Sounds Wild:  Lory parrots.  Wildlife World

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Indianapolis Zoo

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Growing up on the beautiful Italian island of Ischia 19 miles off the coast of Naples, Dr. Valerio Mazzella of the Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn Napoli grew to love the ecosystem's unique features and species.  As a natural source of thermal and pH gradients due to the region's secondary volcanism, which gives rise to carbon dioxide vents, Ischia and the surrounding ocean waters have long been a natural laboratory for scientists to study the global effects of rising atmospheric carbon and the resulting ocean acidification. Dr. Mazzella's research fascination first with sea grasses and the countless species that depend upon them, and later with sea sponges and their microbiomes has implications for preserving the island's fragile balance in the face of mounting pressures from increasing tourism and boat traffic, overfishing, and pollution.

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In 2005, acclaimed nature journalist and author Richard Louv coined the expression, "Nature Deficit Disorder," in his best-selling book, Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder. The book sparked an international movement and greater awareness about the growing lack of human connection to the natural world. He discusses NDD and his new book, Our Wild Calling: How connecting with animals can transform our lives-- and save theirs released this week by Algonquin.

According to the book jacket, Our Wild Calling makes the case for protecting, promoting, and creating a sustainable and shared habitat for all creatures. Louv suggests that strengthening the bonds we share with animals can help serve as an antidote to the growing epidemic of human loneliness. 

Louv is the cofounder and chair emeritus of the Children & Nature Network.

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Species that will experience the effects of climate change the most are ones that depend on sea ice for survival. As the quantity and quality of sea ice changes and the time gap between the spring thaw and fall formation increases, animals like polar bears are struggling to find adequate high fat prey in the form of ringed seals, which are necessary for the bears to survive the winter. Field biologist turned Director of Conservation and Research at the Assiniboine Park Zoo, Dr. Stephen Petersen discusses polar bear physiology, life history, public education and policy, and the resulting conflicts against the backdrop of a changing arctic habitat and ecosystem. The clear message is that one size does not fit all when it comes to population management strategies for this species as various segments of the bear population react differently depending on their latitude and proximity to humans.

This week's Sounds Wild: African Crested Porcupine tail. Thanks to www.conservationambassadors.org.

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Last spring, a single male beluga whale showed up along the shores of Norway following boats and seeking attention and contact with humans. The international press dubbed him "spy whale," as he was clearly trained and likely had strayed from a secret naval program from nearby Russia. Serving as an information resource for authorities, experienced zoo professionals immediately volunteered their time and mobilized to assess and monitor the white whale nicknamed Hvaldimir. One of those volunteers is long time marine mammal trainer and zoological manger, Lindsay Rubincam. Lindsay shares her first hand experiences with Hvaldimir, the personal and professional impact he has had on her life, and the community's efforts to ensure he's safe from the many threats to his well being such as boat traffic, the lack of conspecifics, his excessive comfort with approaching humans and manmade hazards, and the presence of marine mammal eating transient killer whales.

Plus a tribute following the passing of a marine mammal researcher and veterinary icon. 

That Sounds Wild: Belugas

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Chicago Zoological Society's Dr. Lance Miller is one of the principle investigators of a recently published comprehensive Dolphin Welfare Study. Using new technology and software to track study animals, researchers examined physiological and behavioral metrics for dozens of cetaceans from more than 40 AMMPA and AZA accredited facilities across 4 continents to better understand the factors that contribute to improved animal welfare. Such factors include habitat size, access to environmental enrichment, training, age, guest interactions, and more.  

That Sounds Wild: Hippos

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With the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, wildlife conservationist Julie Scardina introduces us to the work of Wild Earth Allies and its executive director, Katie Frohardt. WEA has conservation interests around the globe with a keen interest in Central Africa and the preservation of gorillas. With the aid of scientists experienced at successfully studying and conserving mountain gorillas from the brink of extinction a few decades ago to well over 1000 individuals today, WEA is working to preserve the endangered Grauer's gorilla.  Mitigating the threats to this lowland gorilla subspecies whose population is decreasing by 5% per year is made more difficult by their wider yet patchy distribution over a vast range that varies in habitat quality. One effort supported by WEA to help the gorillas and the local communities that depend upon the same resources is the sorting of gorilla dung to identify preferred foodstuffs and to collect seeds for use in restoring forests by way of two community nurseries.

That Sounds Wild: North American Porcupine. Animal Edutainment

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About 5 years ago, a month old beluga whale calf from the endangered subpopulation of cetaceans native to Cook Inlet Alaska stranded on a mud flat. Much to the surprise of initial responders from the Alaska Sealife Center, the little male was still alive but in serious condition. Over the next serval days and weeks, members of the marine mammal zoological community rallied from across the U.S. to provide medical resources and staffing to provide him around the clock care. By early 2018, NOAA Fisheries deemed the young whale non-releasable due to his young age, health status, and lack of survival skills. The government decided the best location to continue his recovery was with the large beluga pod at SeaWorld of Texas. Curator Katie Kolodziej  describes this remarkable young cetacean named Tyonek and the process of introducing him to his new pod of beluga whales and the instrumental role one special pacific white-sided dolphin played in his success.

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Not all wildlife warriors use rakes, shovels or whistles as their tools for preserving a part of Nature. Some like Brian Masuga, one half of the husband and wife creative team at Peppermint Narwhal, use their art to tell "fun, whimsical" and always informative conservation stories about animals, from the every day kind to the endangered. Brian believes that through art we can breakdown the language barriers that sometimes exist across the globe to become better conservation storytellers in a way that connects species and people. He and his wife Becky have a goal to spread positive messages, especially through the power of social media, to inspire others about the need to preserve wildlife and wild places. Perhaps that's why their infographics have been featured in many zoos and aquariums, in print, and online for years. 

Plus, the latest Zoos News and an all new That Sounds Wild.

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Trainer, media personality, and author of the book, Wear a Wetsuit to Work, Kyle Kittleson talks with Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford about his journey from growing up in the desert to successfully becoming a marine mammal trainer. Kyle's journey prompted him to write a helpful how-to guide for those aspiring to become marine mammal trainers in a highly competitive field.

Plus the latest Zoos News, a legislative update from whyanimalsdothething.com’s Rachel Garner, and an all new That Sounds Wild.

Many people dream of building their own zoo but few individuals ever make that childhood wish a reality. For nearly 40 years, Mickey Ollson has directed the zoological facility he founded known as Wildlife World Zoo. Today that zoo has grown from its original 40 acres and a few hundred animals to well over one hundred acres featuring a Safari Park and Arizona's first public aquarium. In total Wildlife World now houses over 500 species and thousands of individual birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish in what has become one of the largest zoological collections in the western United States. From the lean early years to the unfolding 2008 financial crisis during a major collection expansion to this year's COVID disruptions, Mickey describes the organization's journey against a backdrop of tremendous growth of the desert southwest, and why, despite activism and over-regulation he's still bullish on the future and importance of zoos.

That Sounds Wild: Night safari Tarangire National Park, Tanzania.

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Recently, the IUCN Red List announced its findings that the Monarch Butterfly population had declined between 22% and 72% in just the past decade. As a result of this latest census, which largely attributes the dramatic population decline to habitat loss and overuse of pesticides, the species is now listed as endangered by the IUCN. Butterfly Wonderland's director of education, Adriane Grimaldi helps us understand this amazing species and its incredible yearly migration from Canada to Mexico. Plus, she describes what each of us can do to help preserve and restore the monarch.

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Have wild horses become America's tribble? 

Guests from the Arizona Department of Game and Fish discuss the contentious subject of US wild horse policy, which is often marked by passions and frustration on all sides. Congress passed the landmark 1971 Wild Free-roaming Horse and Burros Act to preserve those specific “unbranded and unclaimed” animals on public lands from steep declines in the preceding decades. Unlike native wildlife species, these feral horses have had a unique legal standing and separate multiple federal agency oversight, which has contributed to the confusion, frustration, disagreement, and anger over their management in recent decades. It might surprise many to know there are 3 times as many formerly designated wild horses living, cared for, and fed in fenced federal facilities than the current management level set for public lands. And, the current estimate of wild horses roaming on public lands is slightly greater than 3 times the management level set at 27000 animals.

Enrichment is a frequently tossed around term but what actually is it?  How is it being used today and is that application appropriate or even effective?  We are on location at the AZA annual conference hosted by Columbus Zoo & Aquarium with applied animal behavior experts Chuck Tompkins and Erin Ivory to discuss the current use of enrichment, how to better maximize its positive impact on animal well-being in managed care and more wild scenarios, and why the term may be a misnomer to cover for the collective historical reservations by some within the zoological space opposed to the idea of "training 'wild' animals tricks." 

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Board certified veterinarian and author, Dr. Doug Mader returns to discuss the growing problem of invasive species throughout Florida and especially, the Everglades and Keys. Given the perfect climate and bountiful food availability, it's no wonder why one such invasive species, the green iguana, has flourished to the point of being deemed a nuisance animal by the state. Still, there are some residents that want to protect the iguanas despite their overgrowth which only serves to complicate matters and thwart potential solutions to reduce population numbers.

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Many people, perhaps most including some scientists, think Monarch Butterflies are in trouble. It turns out, according to Monarch expert and researcher, Andy Davis, PhD from the UGA Odum School of Ecology that Monarch populations over the past decade are stable and may even be climbing. So what began as a Zoo Logic conversation about threats to Monarchs quickly turned into a discussion about the importance of science communications and the difficulty of correcting the public narrative when it is factually wrong. The implications of strongly held, false narratives among the public, media or policymakers are significant and include expensive, misguided and even harmful public policies, what types of research questions are funded or not, and whether data running contrary to the prevailing opinion even gets published in peer-reviewed journals. The parallels to the strongly held narratives about zoos and aquariums and certain charismatic species in human care are unmistakable.

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Starting her career in a more traditional zoo setting in the 1970's, Dr. Laurie Marker has dedicated her professional life to preserving cheetahs in the wild. After what is now Namibia gained independence from South Africa in 1990, she moved to the southern African nation to help reduce the hundreds of cheetahs killed by ranchers and farmers each year. Through the foundation she founded and leads as Executive Director, Cheetah Conservation Fund works to study, preserve, rescue, and most recently, reintroduce wild cheetahs. Dr. Marker describes her team's efforts in the cheetah translocation and rewinding effort underway in India, whose subspecies of cheetah went extinct in the 1950's. Dr. Marker invites zoo professionals and others interested in conserving cheetahs to attend one of her many events scheduled during her US tour underway now.

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We are onsite with the three founders of the Phoenix Herpetological Society to discuss their passion for rescuing animals in need, conserving endangered species, and educating the public about all kinds of ectotherms from cobras to crocodiles. PHS' mission is to "promote conservation and preservation of native and non-native reptiles through education, rehabilitation, rescue, and relocation." From its humble start, PHS now cares for over 1000 animals and boasts several firsts such as "Mr. Stubbs," an American alligator with the first ever prosthetic (tail) for a reptile.

According to www.Phoenixherp.com, PHS was founded in 2001 by three long-time, passionate reptile enthusiasts with a vision to make a difference for reptiles in the state of Arizona. There were plenty of organizations to rescue many species of animals from dogs and cats to birds. However, there was no such facility or refuge for unwanted or rescued reptiles. Reptile owners had no outlet to relinquish ownership if needed nor was there a resource to acquire accurate, reliable information on the care and husbandry of reptiles as pets. In addition, native and non-native species were being destroyed by state facilities and other animal rescue agencies solely due to lack of knowledge regarding care and housing of these amazing creatures – native and exotic. In response, the Phoenix Herpetological Society (PHS) was launched. PHS services have grown over the years from solely taking in unwanted reptile pets to rattlesnake removal, rattlesnake removal training, helping take in and reunite lost and found reptiles, working with law enforcement agencies for illegal or confiscated animals, and even helping special needs reptiles.

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Conversations with animal training and research experts from our recent travels to Portugal and Japan. Guests Mandy Rodriguez, co-founder of the Dolphin Research Center, DRC's Director of Research and Zoo Logic contributor, Dr. Kelly Jaakkola, and professor Satoru Yamamoto pay homage, each in their own unique way to our animal training and care past, the growing focus on conducting research in the present, and the future potential for greater understanding, and improved training and welfare across the globe. Each stresses the importance of not just the science of animal training but also the need to build strong relationships with animals through positive reinforcement steeped in love, a sense of humor, and fun for the animals as well as the people that care for and study them.

Plus, a judge in NY has issued the first ever writ of Habeas Corpus for an elephant named Happy living at the Bronx zoo. Blogger Rachel Garner shares an update on this troubling precedent-setting case brought by those seeking to give human rights to animals, in an all new Zoos News.  

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Longtime trainer and conservationist Julie Scardina reflects on her time filming Mountain Gorillas with Jack Hanna in Rwanda a mere decade after the 1994 genocide. Julie has since trekked to view these great apes many times across their range in nearby Uganda.   Since her retirement as ambassador for SeaWorld & Busch Gardens where she helped manage their Conservation Fund, Julie leads Mission Wildlife, raising awareness and funds to support important conservation projects in Africa and elsewhere.

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A prolific naturalist, award-winning and bestselling author Sy Montgomery and her colleague, Warren Carlyle founder of Octonation, the largest octopus fan club in the world, have a new release entitled Secrets of the Octopus. This book is a follow up to Sy's scientific treatment of the species in 2015's bestseller, Soul of the Octopus. Warren and Sy's passion for this unique species is unmistakable. Both share their journey learning about and promoting further study and preservation of these animals beginning with their very personal encounters with an octopus at an aquarium. The new title comes in advance of a mini series of the same name produced by James Cameron and narrated by actor Paul Rudd scheduled to air on National Geographic on Earth Day. Both Sy and Warren are contributors to the docu-series and believe zoos and aquariums play a vital role in conservation and research.

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Given the globally disruptive challenges presented by COVID-19, zoos, aquariums, and the conservation and research organizations they support are in serious financial jeopardy. So to help sort out a robust pathway forward, we sought the assistance of renowned futurist, Dr. Bob Johansen from the Institute for the Future. In his latest book, he describes the importance of a Full-Spectrum Thinking mindset to avoid the brain's tendency towards rigid categorical thinking. With the next decade expected to be even more chaotic than today such rigidity is not only outdated, it often leads to a false certainty and all too simplistic binary choices. He argues this old way of thinking is not only foolish, it can be dangerous.

To successfully navigate what he calls the "scramble" and to reach the next decade, what's needed is a future-back approach- one that allows leaders to use foresight to set the direction for where an organization wants to be among a spectrum of possible futures. Then by harnessing current insights and remaining flexible about how to get to that future, leaders and organizations can make sense of new opportunities. Resisting labels and using new technologies will assist leaders to see patterns in big-data and achieve greater clarity over false certainty.

That Sounds Wild: Black Bear.  Frank Buck Zoo

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Scientist and historian Dr. Danielle Clode returns to discuss her extraordinary 2002 book, Killers in Eden and the documentary that followed in 2004 that explored the unique cooperative relationship between a pod of orcas and their human whaling partners in a small coastal town in New South Wales. Building upon the historic relationship between the aboriginal Yuin people and the killer whale which are viewed as Yuin ancestors, beginning in the early 1800s, European whalers in the town of Eden spared the seasonally returning predators in favor of teaming with them to hunt migrating humpback, blue, and fin whales. Much like a pack of dogs, the orcas would roundup, wear down, and trap the passing massive baleen whales towards the waiting humans and their small boats in the bay. At night, the orcas would even swim towards the shore to slap their tail flukes and alert the whalers that prey was passing near. The improbable interspecies cooperation was based upon the "Law of the Tongue" in which humans would leave whale carcasses anchored in the bay so that the orcas could feed on the preferred baleen whale parts such as the lips and tongue. After a few days, the whalers would haul the rest of the whale to shore to harvest the blubber for whale oil. This unlikely cooperation lasted decades until the end of whaling in the early 20th century.

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Veterinary epidemiologist, Dr. Dominic Travis, Chief Programs Officer for the Marine Mammal Center returns to discuss the virulent and usually lethal strain of avian influenza affecting a variety of species, especially marine mammals. Given the COVID pandemic fatigue felt across society, it is important not to let our guard down about monitoring for known risks such as influenza which has been front and center among researchers, clinicians, and public health agencies for decades. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, The Marine Mammal Center has rescued more than 26,000 marine mammals along 600 miles of California coastline and the Big Island of Hawai‘i. The TMMC team endeavors to advance ocean health through marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation, research, and education.

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For the past few decades, an unsubstantiated narrative which suggests as many as 10,000 big cats are living in backyards across America has been repeated without evidence. The poorly understood and tracked presence or absence of so many endangered and dangerous felines has implications for policymakers and conservationists alike. To help shed some light on these issues, frequent Zoo Logic contributor, Rachel Garner discusses her recent peer-reviewed paper on the number of big cats found in USDA licensed facilities throughout the U.S.  

A Census of Federally Regulated Big Cat Populations within the United States as of December 2020.

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Many people dream of going on safari. Given the distance, time, and expense involved it is important to research and understand what options, locations, and experiences are most important to you and your travel companions. We talk with one expat with nearly 20 years of experience living abroad, combined with dozens of safaris to well known and more remote locations in east Africa for her suggestions on building that trip of a lifetime.

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As Zoo Logic wraps up its third season over the next few weeks, we invited several past guests representing the arts, science and research, and animal law to share their diverse perspectives on the past difficult year and what a new US administration might mean for public display, conservation, and future regulations. One theme to emerge was the narrative of "retiring" animals to sanctuaries and whether sending older animals to such facilities was truly based on the best welfare of animals or simply designed to soothe human feelings.

That Sounds Wild: African Cicada.

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Friends of the Zoo Logic Podcast, animal trainers and authors, Chuck Tompkins and Clicker Training's Ken Ramirez discuss the impact of using positive reinforcement on people. Each describes their own occasionally bumpy journey as young, inexperienced managers learning to tap into the individual motivations of their team members while also avoiding the management style errors of their predecessors. 

That Sounds Wild: Eurasian Eagle Owl.  Cleveland Metroparks zoo.

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Whale Done!

Randy Babb is a retired wildlife biologist, author, and educator having spent his long career with the Arizona Game and Fish Department. As the year end holidays approach, he discusses the iconic wild turkey, the importance of preserving species and habitats, and the positive influence that changing demographics of wildlife biologists promises for the future of conservation efforts.

Plus, we remember Winter, the special bottlenose dolphin whose story of survival touched the world.

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Increasingly, zoos and aquariums are being called upon to fund and develop science-based research and practical solutions to environmental problems like species extinction and dramatic declines in species abundance. For the past two decades one demonstrably successful consumer-facing program meeting the needs of commerce and conservation has been Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch. What began as a temporary campaign with printed lists of sustainably sourced seafood dining options for the aquarium's visitors has grown into an international effort and mobile app supported by more than two dozen scientists and public engagement professionals. Karin Stratton, conservation partner liaison shares insights on the history and current scope of the Seafood Watch program. 

That Sounds Wild: European brown bears.  www.zoospensefull.com

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Biologist EO Wilson has been called the heir to Darwin. His decades of work in evolutionary biology and island ecology has helped shape modern thinking about species conservation and the increased extinction risks associated with shrinking wild habitats. Science author Jeremy Hance had the opportunity to interview Dr Wilson a few years prior to his recent passing and shares insights into the legendary researcher's life, work, and legacy. 

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While many zoos and aquariums feature animals from around the globe, Bearizona, located in the old western town of Williams, Arizona is uniquely situated among ponderosa pines to focus on north American species. Director of Animals, Dave O'connell returns to discuss managing animals, including more than 40 black and brown bears at high elevation where snow and weather can be extreme.

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In the 20th century, it was the norm for people over the span of decades to work at and eventually retire from the same company. With the approach of the 21st century, a monumental economic shift occurred in which most employees now have a more varied work history with multiple employers over much shorter durations. So to meet zoological professionals with a lifetime of experience at one location with the same individual animals, not just the same species, is increasingly rare. Nicole West, animal manager at Dolphin Quest Oahu, discusses what growing up and working with  the same individual animals for nearly a quarter century has meant to maintaining their behavioral and psychological well-being in good times and bad.

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Providing adequate browse for species that specialize in such diet items can be a huge challenge for any zoological institution due to availability, cost, and quality. While many species adapt to the higher cell wall and lower nutrient levels found in grass hay and quality commercial diets designed to supplement the perishable nutrients that fresh browse provides, there are physiological, behavioral, and health-related tradeoffs to feeding animals foodstuffs that vary significantly from what they'd eat in a suitable, healthy wild habitat. Nutritionist, Dr. Katie Kerr has years of experience working with large and diverse animal collections in major US zoos. She discusses her affinity for problem-solving and the ways zoo animal nutrition has improved and where we ought to be headed to further enhance this major component of animal well-being.

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Should families have long-lived animals like parrots as pets?  Do owls make good animal ambassadors? The founder of Avian Behavior International, Hillary Hankey, works to ensure bird’s have better lives and to reduce behavior-caused stress for owners in the home. Bird training is complex and with so much random information online, she believes training them properly with positive reinforcement can be overwhelming to learn and even harder to implement. So she and her team created online and in-person learning experiences at her southern California farm featuring a variety of avian species from macaws and parrots to several types of birds of prey.  

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Dr. Andreas Fahlman, senior researcher for the Oceanographic Foundation in Valencia Spain shares insights into the respiratory physiology and behavior of offshore and coastal bottlenose dolphins. In addition to significant size differences between these two distinct populations from the same species of dolphin, the larger offshore type has been observed routinely diving to depths of 1000m, whereas the much smaller near shore animals rarely venture beyond depths of 10m. His research to date suggests the diving reflex in marine mammals, a phenomena observed for decades, is actually far more complex than first described. Dr. Fahlman says the passion and skills of the professional animal trainer are a vital tool for researchers engaged in scientific efforts to understand animal physiology and behavior in human care. Such understanding is important because it can lead to the development of new and innovative methods for collecting, designing, and validating data observed from wild populations.  

With the 2109 hurricane season underway, we talk with the program manager for the ZAHP Fusion Center, Dr Yvonne Nadler. Funded by the USDA, the center is a repository for best practices and information designed to assist all (i.e., AZA, ZAA, independent) zoological animal facilities with their disaster preparedness and emergency response planning for natural and manmade events like wild land fires, storms, flooding and zoonotic diseases.

Rachel Garner of http://whyanimalsdothething.com returns with a legislative update on the new bill HR 4211 and its harmful implications for all zoos and aquariums.

Plus, That Sounds Wild: siamang.  Peter Giljam www.Zoospensefull.com.

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The Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport recently announced the successful hatching of 2 endangered black-footed penguins. As a newer facility in a medium sized city, President and CEO Kurt Allen returns to discuss the State's historic hatchlings, the challenges of meeting public and financial expectations, and the importance of remaining adaptable to meet customer needs.

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As most fans know, the late Betty White loved animals and zoos. She routinely donated her time and support to zoos and aquariums and often shared the stage with her good friend, Jungle Jack Hanna. Conservation Ambassador's, David Jackson returns to describe what working with Betty was like on and off stage. Plus, the passing of another zoological icon.

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Long time animal care professional PJ Beaven realized she would be unable to ensure the best welfare for the animals in her care if she didn't first prioritize her own mental and physical health and well-being. So using the same positive reinforcement principles of husbandry and training she learned to apply to animals, PJ created Zoo Fit.  It's a process and lifestyle designed to "eat clean, live green, and train positive."

Plus, we share a personal letter from the family of Jungle Jack Hanna.

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Our recent episode on the Least Reinforcing Scenario (#113) set download records and elicited so much feedback from listeners that we invited long time animal training experts Chuck Tompkins and Ted Turner back to discuss other controversial operant conditioning terms and topics. The Intermediate Bridge and End of Session signal are two such concepts about which few behavior training professionals are ambivalent. Chuck and Ted reflect on the validity of these concepts and warn trainers against letting humanistic interpretations of animal responses cloud their decision-making when it comes to behavior management using operant conditioning. 

That Sounds Wild: African lion, coyote, and new guinea Singing Dog.  EATM at Moorpark College.

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What better way to begin season 4 of Zoo Logic than a conversation with seasoned zoo trainer, educator and friend, Jim Nemet. After long careers at SeaWorld and Cleveland's Metroparks Zoo, Jim recently accepted the role of Director of Wildlife for the prestigious Cleveland Museum of Natural History-- a role previously held by a local legend for almost 50 years!

How has a career training with positive reinforcement helped Jim manage change for the collection of animals and keepers he now leads as well as for himself? What advice does he have for trainer keepers entering the field today? This episode is a fun stroll down memory lane between two friends appreciating the lessons of the past and applying them to the future of animal husbandry and training.

That Sounds Wild: Butcher Bird

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From its humble beginnings on a one acre horse property 40 years ago rescuing and rehabilitating about 80 birds in its first year, Liberty Wildlife today has a modern medical and educational facility which treated and returned 12k wild, orphaned and/or injured birds last year. Education Coordinator, Laura Hackett describes the rich history of the facility, some of its long term resident ambassadors, and its rescue efforts' above average success rate. Plus, Liberty Wildlife is home to the only federally authorized non-eagle feather repository where Native Americans may request feathers and other legally restricted migratory bird parts for cultural and religious use.

That Sounds Wild: Blue Fronted Amazon

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Long time journalist for the popular environmental news website Mongabay.com, Jeremy Hance has a new book entitled, Baggage: Confessions of a Globe Trotting Hypochondriac. In it, he openly and sometimes humorously describes his own struggles with mental illness including anxiety and depression as a child and how his later in life diagnosis of OCD affected and informed his work as a world traveling environmental journalist. Despite the challenges and opportunities his condition presents, Jeremy relishes his time interviewing field researchers in some of the most remote and biodiverse locations in the world. 

That Sounds Wild: Asian Elephants.

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Few have had as long and impactful an animal career as Brad Andrews. Best known for his many years as Chief Zoological Officer for SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, he shares how lessons learned playing college rugby helped him oversee the display and care of the largest  terrestrial and aquatic animal collection in the world. The same lessons may just help us save more species from extinction. Today, he directs the American Humane Association’s (http://www.americanhumane.org) Humane Conservation certification program for zoological facilities.  

Plus an update by Rachel Garner (https://www.whyanimalsdothething.com) with information from NOAA’s public meetings following the news of ailing SRKW J50’s likely demise.

The term pioneer is overused but how else to describe the person contributing to our basic understanding of cetacean health and husbandry, anatomy and physiology, and behavior for the past 60 years? In the early 1960's, Dr. Sam Ridgway became one of the architects of the US Navy's Marine Mammal Program. Trained first as an Air Force veterinarian, Dr Ridgway went on to earn his doctorate and has for decades collaborated with some of the world's most renown marine mammal researchers in the areas of cetacean neuroscience, hearing and echolocation, sleep, deep diving physiology and more.

That Sounds Wild: Bottlenose dolphin

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As 2023 draws to a close and Zoo Logic approaches its 300th episode, we look back at a remarkable institution that launched or strengthened the careers of many zoological professionals and leaders still very active today. In 1970, the second SeaWorld park opened in a most unlikely place, a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio on the shores of Geauga Lake. The purpose of building an inland marine animal park in the Midwest was to draw upon a radius of huge population centers located within about a 6-hour drive of the location. Sadly, the park could never escape the realities of a seasonal park in a region prone to spectacular winter weather. However, despite its brief 30-year history, the blue collar zoological park left an indelible mark on the community and the professionals that passed through her gates. Some of those that knew her well discuss the unique park and the lessons learned while working there.

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In addition to serving as the current board chair for the Zoological Association of America, Holly Hunt operates the African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio. She also serves as president of the International Animal Exchange, an exotic animal import/export and transport company started over 60 years ago by her father and uncles. Who better than someone with Holly's experience to discuss the confusing transport, display, and import implications of the recently passed Big Cat Public Safety Act.

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