# CON

The role of zoos and aquariums in biodiversity conservation is more crucial today than ever before. According to the 2023 Position Statement on Species Conservation by the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Species Survival Commission (IUCN SSC), botanic gardens, aquariums, and zoos play an essential role in ex situ conservation programs (those conducted outside of natural habitats). These programs are vital for preserving species and their genetic resources, as well as supporting reintroduction efforts into the wild. Zoos and aquariums serve not only as spaces to house animals but also as centers of education, scientific research, and professional breeding, bridging the gap between the public and active conservation efforts (IUCN Position Statement on the role of botanic gardens, aquariums, and zoos in species conservation: IUCN link).

Through ex situ programs, such as those of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), Zagreb Zoo actively contributes to global conservation initiatives, which are essential for the survival of species threatened by human activities, climate change, and habitat loss.

EAZA’s Ex Situ Programs (EEPs) facilitate the coordinated management of populations for over 500 animal species, ensuring demographic stability and genetic diversity. These programs are not only critical for the survival of endangered species but also play a significant role in public education and awareness. Breeding initiatives, like those for the scimitar-horned oryx, have enabled the successful reintroduction of these species into the wild, while species like the Socorro dove are maintained in zoos as insurance populations until conditions are suitable for their return to their natural habitats.

EAZA’s conservation approach is structured around Regional Species Plans (RSPs) and Long-term Management Plans (LTMPs). RSPs establish conservation objectives for both wild and zoo-managed populations, while LTMPs provide detailed strategies to ensure long-term genetic and demographic stability.

By participating in global ex situ conservation programs, Zagreb Zoo plays a key role in preserving both European and global biodiversity. As a member of EAZA, the zoo contributes to breeding programs and international conservation projects that help stabilize endangered animal populations, maintain genetic diversity, and educate the public on the importance of wildlife conservation. These efforts involve not only the care of individual animals but also foster a collaborative network across institutions, significantly advancing global conservation initiatives.

The Role of Zagreb Zoo in EAZA Ex Situ Programs (EEPs)

Within the EAZA Ex Situ Programs, Zagreb Zoo actively contributes to the conservation of 76 different species. These include species such as the Socorro dove (Zenaida graysoni, EW), now extinct in the wild; the Dalmatian pelican, also known as the curly pelican (Pelecanus crispus, RE), which is regionally extinct; and the scimitar-horned oryx (Oryx dammah, EN) and European bison (Bison bonasus, VU), both of which have been successfully reintroduced into their natural habitats thanks to extensive ex situ conservation efforts.

Each European Endangered Species Program (EEP) plays a vital role in species conservation and population recovery, striving to maintain stable, healthy genetic lines that are crucial for the long-term survival of these species in the wild. By actively participating in EEP committees for species such as the white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla), Moluccan cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis), and Socorro dove (Zenaida graysoni), Zagreb Zoo is directly involved in the development and implementation of species management strategies, further contributing to global biodiversity conservation efforts.

Studbook Development, Long-term Management Plans, and Regional Species Plans

The Zagreb Zoo plays an active role in managing studbooks for various species, including the rock hyrax (Procavia capensis) and the channel-billed toucan (Ramphastos vitellinus). The EEP (European Endangered Species Programme) coordinator collects data on the status of individual animals of these species within EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria) zoos and aquariums. This information is used to compile studbooks, perform demographic and genetic analyses, and develop future species management plans. Based on these analyses, the zoo provides recommendations to participating institutions, ensuring the maintenance of stable and healthy populations.

In addition to studbook management, the zoo actively contributes to the creation of Long-term Management Plans (LTMPs) for species such as the northern bald ibis (Geronticus eremita), pink-backed pelican (Pelecanus rufescens), and Socorro dove (Zenaida graysoni). These plans establish clear, long-term genetic and demographic goals for each species, along with specific strategies and actions to achieve these targets.

Furthermore, the zoo is involved in the development of Regional Species Plans (RSPs) for various animal groups, including Soricomorpha, Scadentia, Xenarthra, pangolins, crocodiles, lizards, and birds from the Ciconiiformes and Phoenicopteriformes groups. These plans help align conservation objectives across the zoo network, ensuring coordinated actions and strategies that enhance species conservation throughout the entire network.

Summary:

Zagreb Zoo actively participates in ex situ conservation programs for endangered species as a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). Through the EAZA Ex Situ Program (EEP), the Zoo contributes to the protection of more than 76 species—including those that are endangered or extinct in the wild. Its efforts support biodiversity preservation through strategic long-term planning, studbook management, and public education initiatives.