# CON

The role of zoos and aquariums in biodiversity conservation is more vital 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 are essential for ex situ conservation programs (programs conducted outside natural habitats). These programs play a crucial role in preserving species and their genetic resources and support reintroduction efforts into the wild. Zoos and aquariums serve as more than spaces to house animals—they act as centers of education, scientific research, and professional breeding, creating a bridge between the public and active conservation measures. (IUCN Position Statement on the role of botanic gardens, aquariums, and zoos in species conservation: IUCN link)

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

EAZA’s Ex Situ Programs (EEPs) enable coordinated management of populations for over 500 animal species, maintaining demographic stability and genetic diversity. Programs like these are crucial for the survival of endangered species and are also valuable for public education and awareness. Breeding programs, such as those for the scimitar-horned oryx, have facilitated the reintroduction of these species into the wild, while species like the Socorro dove are maintained as insurance populations in zoos until conditions allow for their return to their natural habitats.

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

Through participation in global ex situ conservation programs, Zagreb Zoo plays an important role in preserving European and global biodiversity. As a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), Zagreb Zoo contributes to breeding programs and international conservation projects that help stabilize endangered animal populations, maintain genetic diversity, and educate the public about the importance of wildlife conservation. These activities not only involve caring for individual animals but also create a collaborative network across various institutions, significantly contributing to global conservation efforts.

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

Within the EAZA Ex Situ Programs, Zagreb Zoo participates in the conservation of 76 different species. This includes species such as the Socorro dove (Zenaida graysoni, EW), 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), which have been successfully reintroduced to natural habitats thanks to extensive ex situ conservation efforts.

Each EEP aims to contribute to species conservation and population recovery, maintaining stable and healthy genetic lines that could be critical for the survival of these species in the wild. By participating on EEP committees for species like the white-tailed eagle (Halieaetus albicilla), Moluccan cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis), and Socorro dove (Zenaida graysoni), Zagreb Zoo actively takes part in the development and implementation of species management strategies, contributing to global biodiversity conservation efforts.

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

Zagreb Zoo also plays an active role in managing studbooks for specific species, including the rock hyrax (Procavia capensis) and the channel-billed toucan (Ramphastos vitellinus). The EEP coordinator gathers data on the status of all individual animals of these species within EAZA zoos and aquariums, compiles studbooks, conducts demographic and genetic analyses, and creates plans for future species management. Based on these insights, the zoo provides recommendations to participating institutions, ensuring stable and healthy populations.

Additionally, the zoo is involved in developing Long-term Management Plans (LTMPs) for species like the northern bald ibis (Geronticus eremita), pink-backed pelican (Pelecanus rufescens), and Socorro dove (Zenaida graysoni). These plans set precise long-term genetic and demographic goals for each species, as well as specific strategies and actions to achieve these goals.

Zoo also contributes to Regional Species Plans (RSPs) for various animal groups, including Soricomorpha and Scadentia, Xenarthra, pangolins, crocodiles, lizards, and birds from the Ciconiiformes and Phoenicopteriformes groups. These plans help align conservation goals across the zoo network, ensuring coordinated actions and strategies to enhance species conservation within the entire network.

Summary:

Zagreb Zoo participates in ex situ conservation programs for endangered species as part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). Through the EAZA Ex Situ Program (EEP), Zagreb Zoo contributes to safeguarding over 76 species, including extinct in the wild and endangered species, and supports biodiversity preservation through long-term planning, studbook management, and public education initiatives.