BIOC62 Exam - Conservation Biology PDF

Lecture 7 - Returning Animals to the Wild Terms 1.​ The Ark: Ex-situ assurance populations preserve species that are extinct or nearly extinct in the wild 2.​ Protective Custody: Preserves genetic diversity, buys time for habitat restoration, and eventual reintroduction 3.​ Assurance...

Lecture 7 - Returning Animals to the Wild Terms 1.​ The Ark: Ex-situ assurance populations preserve species that are extinct or nearly extinct in the wild 2.​ Protective Custody: Preserves genetic diversity, buys time for habitat restoration, and eventual reintroduction 3.​ Assurance Colonies - Ex-situ Assurance Populations: captive populations of species maintained outside their natural habitat to prevent extinction, serving as a genetic and demographic backup for wild populations, ensuring a species’ survival if in situ conservation fails. Establishing New Populations 1.​ Translocation: deliberate movement of living organisms from one area with free release in another area (IUCN definition) to establish a healthy, genetically diverse, self-sustaining population or enhance the existing populations of ↑ species’ chances of survival a.​ Assisted colonization: to benefit the conservation status of the focal species outside its natural range b.​ Ecological replacement: outside its natural range to perform a specific ecological function that has been lost through the extinction of another organism 2.​ Introduction: releasing animals into a habitat where they have never occurred naturally (purposefully or accidentally) 3.​ Reintroduction: releasing animals into an area where they have declined or disappeared 4.​ Reinforcement: restocking/supplementation of a population by adding individuals to it from elsewhere 5.​ Rehabilitation: process by which naïve animals are trained to live in their natural habitat (which needs to take place BEFORE they can be released into the wild) Considerations 1.​ Theoretical Considerations a.​ Strategic Approach: i.​ Hard release: animals released from captivity with no training/time to acclimate to the environment ii.​ Soft release: animals given care at release point (e.g., spend time in cages at release point to acclimate to the area, fed and sheltered at release point) b.​ Ten Questions: improved strategic, integrated approach to reintroduction biology i.​ Population Level: Success of a single reintroduced population -​ Establishment: How many -​ Persistence: habitat quality, carrying capacity, and genetic health ii.​ Metapopulation Level: How multiple populations interact across space -​ How many individuals need to be removed from the donor (source) populations -​ Distribute individuals across different sites to promote connectivity, reduce isolation, and avoid over-concentration. iii.​ Ecosystem Level: Broader ecological impacts and interactions -​ Assess whether the species (and any associated parasites) are native to the area. -​ Predicts how reintroduction might affect other species and ecological processes (e.g., through predation or competition). c.​ Ecological setting for release i.​ Determine the reasons for decline: Identify and address the original causes of local extinction or decline ii.​ Assess life history: Life history traits describe: Life history -> Population Demography -> Establishment 1.​ Reproductive strategies of organisms (how many offspring /when to reproduce) 2.​ Timing of life cycle events (how long to spend growing before maturing, etc.  iii.​ Assess the habitat: Ecological factors that influence age-specific birth and death rates and migration can impact success 2.​ Practical Considerations a.​ Gaining local permission: May need to involve local landowners, and Local authorities need to approve both captures/releases and follow-ups b.​ Capturing Wild Animals (Stressful and Dangerous): Requires planning/research/veterinary involvement, and experienced personnel to reduce risks to the animal c.​ Transportation (Stressful, Expensive, Requires Vet): Animals’ needs must be met during travel (food/water/space/correct temperatures/protection against injury and escape d.​ Site Selection: Assessment of release site à meet the needs of animals over the long term? e.​ Animal Release: Immediate release can create panic/disorientation (soft versus hard release)? f.​ Monitoring: Need to monitor: interactions among animals, between animals and the environment, between animals and other species Measuring Success Empirically -​ Seven Predictors of Success 1.​ Habitat Quality: High-quality habitats improve survival and reproduction 2.​ Historic Range: Releases within the species' former range have higher success than introductions outside of it 3.​ Number of animals released: Larger release groups increase chances of survival and genetic diversity 4.​ Taxonomic class: Some groups (e.g., birds, mammals) tend to have higher success rates than others (e.g., amphibians) 5.​ Legal status: Native game species may receive more support than endangered or invasive ones 6.​ Program length: Multi-year release programs tend to be more successful than one-time efforts 7.​ Potential productivity of the species: Species with high reproductive rates are more likely to establish self-sustaining populations PROBLEMS WITH TRANSLOCATIONS 1.​ Allocation of Resources: Habitat restoration versus captive breeding 2.​ Dispersal of Released Animals: Animals can move beyond the reintroduction zone 3.​ Environmental Carrying Capacity (K): How many individuals can a habitat support (especially in bad years) 4.​ Conflicts with Humans: Human activities can impede reintroductions AS WELL Captive-bred animals may not be afraid of humans (or even of other predators) 5.​ Ecological Disruptions: Newly reintroduced species can be a major ecological disturbance for other species in the area 6.​ Post-release Monitoring Problems: Months/years of monitoring are necessary, but often do not happen (practical/financial reasons) 7.​ Captive-reared organisms can be unfit in the wild a.​ Relaxed selection: adaptations to captivity, non-adaptive changes that affect individual fitness in the wild b.​ Example California Condors i.​ Problem: captive-released animals were unable to learn normal social bonds with other condors because they were imprinted on human handlers -​ Solution: feed hatchlings with puppets and keep them from seeing humans ii.​ Problem: captive-released animals were unable to learn normal social bonds with other condors because they were imprinted on their rearing environments. -​ Solution: raise condors in enclosed outdoor areas far from buildings Conservation and Welfare Ethic vs. Animal Rights  1.​ Conservation and welfare ethic: Maintain and promote species diversity and the health of ecosystems a.​ Highest quality care with direct wildlife and habitat benefits b.​ Jane Goodall: There is a mistaken belief that animals in their natural habitat are, by definition, better off. Not true, necessarily. i.​ Much larger enclosures, Well-qualified staff who not only understand but also care with a Great effort is put into enrichment activities (Mental and Physical) 2.​ Animal rights: Focuses on the rights of individual animals (e.g., liberty, avoiding captivity). a.​ Can conflict with conservation: i.​ May oppose captivity even if it helps the species survive. ii.​ May oppose predator removal even if needed for ecosystem balance. iii.​ May view zoo-based breeding as unethical, even if it prevents extinction. Study Summary: Puerto Rican Crested Toad SSP/Conservancy 1.​ Conservation Goal: Recover populations in Puerto Rico through captive breeding and reintroduction, while managing genetic diversity and threats like hurricanes and predators. 2.​ Strategy Used a.​ Captive breeding in AZA zoos with planned genetic management. b.​ Reintroduction across multiple sites with monitoring and habitat restoration. c.​ Predator control and community outreach. 3.​ Genetic Considerations a.​ Northern population: Highly inbred (MK = 0.6003), low genetic diversity (39.97%). b.​ Southern population: Low inbreeding (MK = 0.0424), high diversity (95.46%). 4.​ Monitoring and Success a.​ Breeding confirmed at 3 reintroduction sites. b.​ Long-term tracking shows integration; IUCN status upgraded to Endangered. 5.​ Threats and Challenges a.​ Hurricane impacts, introduced predators, and habitat degradation. Study Summary: Blanding’s Turtle Head-Starting Program 1.​ Conservation Goal: Rebuild a viable, self-sustaining population (target: 100–150 breeders) in Rouge National Urban Park, where the population is functionally extinct. 2.​ Strategy Used a.​ Head-starting (raising hatchlings in captivity to reduce early mortality) b.​ Scientific monitoring, including telemetry, reproductive studies, and growth tracking. c.​ Community involvement and stewardship education. 3.​ Monitoring and Success a.​ Monitoring via radio telemetry, weight tracking, and reproductive behavior. b.​ No difference found between soft and hard releases. 4.​ Threats and Challenges a.​ Habitat loss, road mortality, and low reproductive rates. Lecture 8 Zoos & Aquariums: Guardians of Wild: Sustainability Action -​ Green Initiatives: Actions that reduce environmental impact, conserve resources, and promote eco-friendly practices -​ Environmental Sustainability: Meeting present needs without compromising future generations -​ Energy Conservation: solar panels, wind power, and geothermal heating -​ Water Conservation: rainwater collection and water recycling systems -​ Sustainable Architecture: Green roofs, energy-efficient buildings, and natural lighting -​ Waste Management: Recycling programs, composting, and managing single-use plastics Toronto Zoo Sustainability Initiatives 1.​ Energy Conservation  -​ ICEnergy Systems: reduce energy costs and alleviate strain on the electrical grid by shifting cooling energy usage to off-peak hours -​ How it Works -​ Ice Production (Charging Phase): During off-peak hours (typically at night), chillers cool water to create ice within insulated storage tanks -​ Cooling Delivery (Discharging Phase): During peak demand periods, the stored ice melts, and the resulting cold water or air is circulated to cool buildings, reducing the need for active refrigeration systems. -​ Benefits and Application -​ Energy Cost Savings, Grid Demand Reduction, Environmental Impact -​ Powers air conditioning in the Caribou Cafe -​ Geothermal: Uses the earth’s stable underground temperature to heat and cool buildings (like animal habitats). -​ Provides consistent year-round temperature control with minimal environmental impact. -​ Reduce carbon emissions by 230T annually -​ Infrastructure Upgrades: energy-efficient upgrades to reduce energy use and carbon emissions -​ VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives): Adjust motor speeds in pumps, fans, and compressors based on demand. -​ On-Demand Water Heaters: Heat water only when needed, instead of keeping a full tank hot at all times. -​ High-Efficiency Boilers: Use less fuel to produce the same amount of heat compared to traditional boilers -​ Filtration Media (Aquariums): Recycled Glass Media (RGM): Replaces traditional sand in water filtration systems (used in aquatics, ponds, pools). -​ Air-sourced heat pumps (High-Efficient Technology): Extract heat from outside air (even in winter) to heat or cool buildings. -​ Solar Energy System: 2.​ Water Conservation -​ Rainwater Capture: Collects rainwater from rooftops or exhibit structures to water the greenhouse -​ Cincinnati Zoo: Elephant Trek & Water Sustainability -​ 1 Million Gallon Rainwater Collection System: Massive underground storage captures stormwater from the exhibit and surrounding areas. -​ Floating Wetlands: Artificial islands with plants float and cover 5% of the Pond Surface Area -​ Improves Water Quality: Roots absorb excess nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus) and reduce algae growth, improve clarity, and enhance habitat conditions. -​ Greywater Integration: Can be used to filter and reuse greywater from zoo operations (e.g., sinks, drains). 3.​ Sustainable Architecture -​ Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED): A global certification for green buildings that rates buildings on sustainability, energy efficiency, water use, materials, and indoor environmental quality. -​ Carbon Neutral Construction: Built with materials and systems designed to achieve net-zero carbon emissions during construction and operation. -​ Toronto Zoo - Community Conservation Campus: Acts as a hub for public education, conservation research, and community engagement. -​ Greenhouse Retrofit: Energy Efficiency Upgrades through better insulation, efficient lighting, and optimized climate control systems. 4.​ Waste Management  a.​ Circular Economy: designing systems that minimize waste and maximize reuse, unlike the traditional “take: make: dispose” model. i.​ Rainwater capture → reused for irrigation and cleaning ii.​ Greywater systems → recycled for non-potable uses iii.​ Recycled glass filtration → reduces waste and water use iv.​ Composting & habitat restoration → organic waste returned to local ecosystems b.​ Partnerships i.​ Rain Barrel Art Project: Turns functional rain barrels into public art pieces, promoting stormwater awareness and water conservation. ii.​ Friendlies: Recycled containers used in cafes and restaurants on-site iii.​ Oscar Sort: interactive garbage can Community Engagement & Public Education -​ Green Visitor Programs: Encourage eco-friendly travel to the zoo and promote sustainable behavior through interactive exhibits and tours -​ Public Awareness Campaigns: Topics include climate action, biodiversity, waste reduction, and water conservation -​ Plastics Pathway is an educational exhibit and action campaign focused on how plastic impacts wildlife -​ Partnerships with Schools & Conservation Groups: Joint events, curriculum-linked programs, habitat restoration projects -​ Invasive Species Management: 5-year program with Community & Staff engagement supporting Native species regeneration -​ Biodiversity Restoration: Acres for Atmosphere, Mini Forests, Meadow Plantings, Pollinator Gardens Lecture 9: Educating the Public Terms 1.​ Nature Deficit Disorder: People who spend less time in nature can become alienated from it a.​ Can lead to diminished use of senses, attention difficulties, higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses 2.​ Ecophobia: a feeling of powerlessness to prevent cataclysmic environmental change a.​ Children who are exposed to knowledge that is too abstract, or content that they cannot change (e.g., climate change risks) 3.​ Stewardship: the responsible management and care of the environment and natural resources, grounded in the idea that humans have an ethical duty to protect and sustain ecosystems for current and future generations. Understanding Learning Theory (Epistemology) -​ Behaviourism: teacher-centred, learning occurs through external influences and memorization. 1.​ Classical Conditioning: Learned behaviours that are automatic based on the presence of a stimulus a.​ Ex. learned taste aversions or specific phobias 2.​ Operant Conditioning: Learned behaviours that are voluntary and strengthened based on repetition and reinforcement a.​ Ex. giving verbal praise for a correct answer -​ Constructivism: student-centred, learning occurs through guided experience and exploration. -​ Constructivist learning: students build understanding through hands-on, real-world experience, not just memorizing facts -​ Authentic : grounded in real contexts (e.g., citizen science, habitat monitoring) -​ Relevant : tied to students’ world and local environments  -​ Achievable : scaffolded so learners can work through the challenge and succeed When a student is faced with new knowledge, one of three things can occur: 1.​ Conflict Buried: They will ignore the conflict between this new knowledge and their prior knowledge 2.​ Conflict Faced: They will construct a better model from their prior knowledge 3.​ Conflict Deferred: They will temporarily push aside their intuitive prior knowledge and be open to learning a new way of thinking about their experience Contextual Model of Learning Interpretation: Making meaningful connections between the visitor and the zoo’s messages and encouraging visitors to engage emotionally, intellectually, and personally (conservation, animal care, sustainability) 1.​ Key Principles of Interpretation a.​ Provoke: “I’m curious” : sparks interest and questioning b.​ Relate: “I understand” : connects to visitors' own lives c.​ Reveal: “I care” : uncovers deeper meaning and emotional connection Free-Choice Learning & Interpretation 1.​ Guest-Centric: Learning is self-directed; visitors choose what to engage with and for how long. 2.​ Episodic: Learning happens in short bursts, not in structured lessons. 3.​ Fluid / Continuous: Visitors move freely, learning across different exhibits and moments. 4.​ Affective (Emotional): Feelings and personal connections play a big role in what’s remembered. 5.​ Visual / Physical / Concrete: Hands-on activities, real animals, and tangible displays are most impactful. 6.​ Social / Conversational: Learning often happens through talking with others (family, staff, other guests). 7.​ Distracted: Many competing stimuli; attention shifts quickly. 8.​ Influenced by Reason for Visiting: Whether guests came for fun, learning, relaxation, or Motivations to Visit (Identity-Related Visit Motivations) 1.​ Facilitator (30%): Desire to facilitate other people’s needs a.​ Others in my group would like it or benefit from the visit 2.​ Recharger (10%): Seeking contemplative or restorative experience a.​ To feel refreshed, focused, or appreciative 3.​ Explorer (4%): Personal curiosity a.​ It interested me and I thought I would like it 4.​ Experience Seeker (4%): Desire to see and experience a place a.​ It was an attraction or thing to do in this community; its reputation 5.​ Professional/Hobbyist (1%): Specific knowledge-related goals a.​ It is related to my work or something I actively pursue as a hobby Outcomes Indicators 1.​ Awareness: People recognize what they can do to help wildlife and wild spaces. 2.​ Attitude: People feel connected to nature. 3.​ Knowledge: People describe the connections between people, animals, and the environment. 4.​ Skills: People share the Zoo’s conservation messages with family and friends 5.​ Behaviour: People explore natural spaces. Steps to Stewardship 1.​ Curiosity: Initial interest is sparked. a.​ I want to know more 2.​ Awareness: Topic enters personal reflection and relevance. a.​ It's on my mind; let me think about it 3.​ Understanding: Learner connects facts to feelings. a.​ I get it; I think I care 4.​ Caring About: Emotional investment begins; intent forms. a.​ I want to help 5.​ Caring For: Commitment turns into action.  a.​ I will help Week 10 Part 1: Research at Toronto Zoo Wildlife Nutrition Perspective Transition of Nutrition 1.​ General Feeding → Species-Specific Diets (1890s): Recognition that diet affects animal health in captivity a.​ 1903: Kolkata (Calcutta) Zoo initiates early structured feeding trials first recorded zoo to systematically study animal nutrition. 2.​ Basic Diets → Scientific Nutrition (1920s): Incorporation of nutritional biochemistry, veterinary diagnostics, and individualized feeding protocols. a.​ Dr. Ellen P. Corsen White advances animal nutrition understanding, especially in relation to vitamin deficiencies. 3.​ Survival-Focused → Welfare and Enrichment (1930s–1940s): Emphasis now on welfare, disease prevention, and behavioral enrichment through diet. a.​ SCARF: The Toronto Zoo was the first zoo to hire a full-time wildlife nutritionist on staff. b.​ Zoo and Wildlife Nutrition Foundation (ZWNF): Established with the support of the AZA nutrition advisory group, contributing nutrition expertise around the world i.​ Nutrition Advisory Group to the AZA: Current Zoo Wildlife Nutrition 1.​ Ecology: Nutrient fluxes and foraging strategies a.​ Natural Diet Composition: Provides a baseline to approximate macronutrient and micronutrient intake in captivity. 2.​ Evolutionary Ecology: Fossil records and genetically related species a.​ Helps determine morphological adaptations (e.g., dentition, gut length) for feeding strategies. 3.​ Comparative Physiology: Species with similar strategies a.​ Enhancing Natural Behaviours: Nutrition planning must support species-typical behaviors: Browsing, digging, hunting, tool use, etc. 4.​ Scientific Literature: Species-specific studies ex-situ, in vitro, etc a.​ Time Budgets: Analysis of how animals allocate time to different activities (feeding, resting, foraging, socializing). 5.​ Observations from the Wild: Intake, nutrient content of wild feeds, circulating metabolites a.​ Circulating Metabolites: Measures blood and tissue metabolites (e.g., glucose, ketones, fatty acids, vitamin levels) to monitor health to evaluate nutrient absorption, metabolism, and overall welfare. Traditional vs IUCN One Plan 1.​ Traditional Approach: Treats in situ (wild) and ex situ (captive) populations as separate tracks managed by different stakeholders a.​ Wildlife managers, field researchers, NGOs, and land owners plan Conservation Strategies, action plans, and recovery plans, and expect viable in situ populations b.​ Zoos, aquariums, and botanic gardens, planning for species program goals, collection plans, and master plans, and expect viable ex-situ populations 2.​ One Plan Approach: Unifies all relevant stakeholders to plan collaboratively for conservation actions in situ and management of ex-situ populations to meet conservation goals under the common goal of creating viable populations thriving in healthy ecosystems Role of the Toronto Zoo’s Wildlife Nutrition Centre -​ Maintaining Animal Health: -​ Designs species-specific diets based on nutritional science and medical needs. -​ Works closely with veterinarians to adjust diets for animals under medical treatment (e.g., kidney support diets, obesity management).  -​ Ensures animals receive the correct vitamin and mineral balance, tailored to life stage, health status, and seasonal changes. -​ Importance of Tailored Diets: -​ Prevents nutritional deficiencies and metabolic disorders. -​ Supports reproductive health, growth, and longevity. -​ Enhances animal welfare by simulating natural feeding behaviors. -​ Enrichment Feeding: The use of food in creative, behaviorally stimulating ways to improve welfare. -​ Non-grass plant materials (e.g., twigs, leaves, flowers, bark) are offered as supplementary feed. Vancouver Island Marmot Case Study: Detailed Discussion -​ Challenges in Conservation Breeding 1.​ Captive Hibernation Failure a.​ Captive marmots enter shorter, less effective hibernation (about 5 weeks shorter than wild counterparts). b.​ Overwinter survival is lower in captive-reared individuals post-release. 2.​ Health Concerns a.​ Captive marmots develop cardiovascular disease, possibly linked to dietary imbalances in fatty acids (FAs). b.​ Lack of data on wild marmot physiology (body composition, FA profiles, hibernation depth, torpor length) limits improvements to captive care. -​ Zoo-Based Research to Improve the Program 1.​ Fatty Acid Profile Studies a.​ Captive diets are high in omega-6 and saturated fats, which are pro-inflammatory and associated with poor hibernation. b.​ In contrast, wild diets are richer in omega-3 PUFAs (e.g., EPA, DHA), which promote membrane fluidity, deeper torpor, and heart stability. 2.​ Model Species Trials (Marmota monax) a.​ Trials test how different n6:n3 fatty acid ratios affect hibernation. b.​ Example: The Marmot Research Pellet (MRP) group was fed a diet with a lower n6:n3 ratio (~1.0), and compared to the Toronto Zoo (TZ) control group (~5.0). c.​ MRP-fed animals showed better hibernation outcomes, confirming dietary balance is crucial. 3.​ Comparative Field Data a.​ Collected data from wild marmots on: b.​ Stomach contents, organ fat composition, and preferred alpine plant species. c.​ Seasonal shifts in plant fatty acid composition. 4.​ Goal a.​ Use findings to reformulate captive diets, lower n6:n3 ratios, and better match the wild physiological requirements. b.​ Improve overwinter survival and post-release adaptation. Week 10 Part 2: Veterinary Terms 1.​ Wildlife Health: Focuses on population and ecosystem health, not just individual treatment. Encompasses diagnostics, disease prevention, and conservation medicine. 2.​ Zoological Medicine: Veterinary science in zoos that extends to conservation efforts (e.g., health checks, breeding support, field care). 3.​ One Health / One Plan Approach: Emphasizes integration of wildlife, human, and ecosystem health through cross-disciplinary collaboration. 4.​ Climate-linked Disease Emergence: Warming leads to expanded ranges for vectors (e.g., ticks, mosquitoes) → more spillover events to livestock and humans  5.​ Cultural Sensitivity in LMICs: Conservation capacity-building in low- to middle-income countries must respect local contexts and knowledge systems. Veterinarians in Conservation 1.​ Not just about saving individuals, but species- or ecosystem-level health 2.​ Examples: disease management in reintroductions, pre/post-release assessments, nutrition care 3.​ Work includes both clinical practice and conservation medicine. Wildlife Health Research Is about: -​ Preventing species loss due to disease. -​ Reducing human-induced threats (pollution, habitat change). -​ Supporting healthy populations in situ and ex situ. -​ Is not just about treating wild individuals or removing all disease. Toronto Zoo’s Role Provides: 1.​ Preventative care, diagnostics, and treatments for captive species. 2.​ Support for reintroductions (e.g., Blanding’s turtle). 3.​ Data collection and knowledge transfer to field conservation. 4.​ Training hub for wildlife health professionals. Lecture 11: Botanical Gardens Transitions of Botanical Gardens 1.​ From Herbalism → Science a.​ Orto Botanico di Padova (Padua, Italy) : Est. 1545: Oldest academic botanical garden in continuous operation. 2.​ From Display → Research & Education a.​ The Botanic Garden, Oxford (UK): One of the oldest scientific gardens in the UK. i.​ Major contributions to plant taxonomy, horticulture, and university education. 3.​ From Local Collections → Global Conservation Networks a.​ Rock Garden : Royal Botanical Gardens, Edinburgh (Scotland): Showcases alpine and mountainous plant species. i.​ Highlights microclimate and niche conservation through naturalistic design. 4.​ From Passive Viewing → Public Engagement & Policy Influence Plants Are Not Animals -​ Biological and reproductive distinctions that affect conservation strategies. -​ Freely hybridize → taxonomy is complex -​ Less affected by inbreeding depression -​ Seeds = compact, natural germplasm storage units -​ Easily propagated from tissue samples -​ Often require obligate ecological partnerships (e.g., pollinators, mycorrhizal fungi) -​ Societal, cultural, and conservation challenges are unique to plants. -​ Humans have relocated many more plant species globally than animals -​ Conservation framed in utilitarian terms (e.g., food, medicine) -​ Thousands of wild plants are used in traditional and emerging economies -​ Public perception: plants are less charismatic → receive less conservation focus -​ Plants vs. Animals in Conservation Feature​ Plants (Botanical Gardens)​ Animals (Zoos & Aquariums) Reproduction Easy vegetative propagation, seed Requires breeding pairs, reproductive storage maturity  Inbreeding Sensitivity Less sensitive Highly sensitive to inbreeding depression Genetic Management Rarely use studbooks; limited focus on Use studbooks and genetic tools to genetic tracking maintain healthy gene pools Public Engagement Perceived as less charismatic; harder Animals draw public interest more easily to engage the public Ecological Roles Primary producers, often overlooked Often, keystone or flagship species Conservation Often utilitarian (medicine, food, Often framed around individual lives, Framing aesthetics) welfare, and sentience In-Situ vs. Ex-Situ Plant Conservation 1.​ In-Situ Actions: Habitat protection, ecological restoration, genetic diversity maintenance, pollination studies. a.​ Cootes Paradise Marsh (Royal Botanical Gardens) i.​ Planting Typha spp. (Cattails) 1.​ Purpose: Restore wetland function and stabilize sediment. 2.​ Outcome: Improves water quality and provides habitat for birds and amphibians. ii.​ Wild Rice (Zizania spp.) Restoration 1.​ Importance: Culturally significant to Indigenous communities. 2.​ Ecological Role: Keystone wetland species that support biodiversity. 3.​ Actions: Seed reintroduction and hydrological restoration to promote natural growth cycles. 2.​ Ex-Situ Actions: Cultivation, seed banks, tissue culture, propagation of rare species. a.​ Propagation: The process of reproducing plants from seeds, cuttings, tissue cultures, or divisions. i.​ Keeping Plants in Cultivation: growing and maintaining plant species, especially threatened or rare ones, in controlled settings like botanical gardens or seed banks, often as part of ex-situ conservation strategies. b.​ Millennium Seed Bank: Wakehurst Place (UK) Royal Botanic Gardens i.​ Goal: Securely store seeds of 25% of the world’s plant species, with a strong focus on those at risk of extinction. Educating the public -​ Investing in Nature: A Partnership for Plants in Canada (2002: 2006) as a National program uniting Canadian botanical gardens and conservation networks. -​ Shared goals for plant species recovery. -​ Capacity building among institutions. -​ Coordinated implementation of the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation (GSPC) in Canada. -​ The Conservation Continuum (IEECE) 1.​ Intrigue and Excite: Capture interest with marketing, visuals a.​ Garden branding, stickers (e.g., Leiden BG) 2.​ Entice and Seduce: Offer a beautiful and immersive experience​ a.​ Sensory gardens, peaceful trails 3.​ Enrich and Inform: Provide accessible education about plant systems How It All works​ a.​ Labels, interactive signs, exhibits 4.​ Caution and Forewarn: Explain threats to biodiversity Why We’re Concerned & What Helps a.​ Invasive species signage, conservation panels  5.​ Equip to Make a Difference: Providing Tractable Tools To Engage and Make a Difference a.​ Native seed kits, eco-gardening guides Examples 1.​ Red Mulberry (Morus rubra) a.​ Status i.​ IUCN: Least Concern ii.​ COSEWIC: Endangered in Canada b.​ Reduced to ~200 plants by hybridization with introduced White Mulberry. Now, many partners are implementing various parts of the recovery plan. Experimental propagation underway 2.​ Hoary Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum incanum) : Prairie Species a.​ Thought to be extinct in Canada, but rediscovered, and a recovery plan was developed in partnership with the Ministry of Natural Resources is underway 3.​ Few-flowered Club-Rush (Trichophorum planifolium) : Wetland Plant a.​ Only two populations in Canada, with the Rouge Valley population lost species are now only found in the Cootes Paradise (RBG) recovery team being assembled 4.​ Wood Poppy (Stylophorum diphyllum (Michx.) Nutt.) a.​ Status i.​ United States: plentiful ii.​ Canada: Under 600 wild plants with Known groups in decline b.​ Threats i.​ The ravine location of the largest colony has been heavily altered over the last decades by fill, logging, and canopy opening, vulnerable to development ii.​ Also, concern over visitor traffic iii.​ The smallest colony appears to be gone Lecture 12 Part 1: Conservation Social Science Persuasion or Manipulation: Influence the attitudes or behaviour of individuals toward an interest of the initiator 1.​ Manipulation: influence with ill intent or deception. a.​ Deceptive, aims to control or exploit b.​ Hides true motives or misleads c.​ Undermines autonomy d.​ Exaggerating threats to induce fear 2.​ Persuasion: ethical influence. a.​ Honest, aims to inform or guide​ b.​ Clear and open about motives​ c.​ Respects individual autonomy and choice​ d.​ Educating about invasive species impacts Problems with Changing Thoughts 1.​ Cognitive Dissonance: A Feeling of discomfort while contemplating conflicting ideas a.​ Example i.​ Belief: I love my cat, and she likes to go outside, so i wont lock her in ii.​ Message: Roaming cats are devastating wildlife populations b.​ Resolve Dissonance i.​ Accept Message: Cats are invasive species and are devastating wildlife 1.​ -> Behavioural Change: I will start keeping my cat indoors ii.​ Reject Message: This guy doesn't know what he's talking about and I hate him 2.​ Confirmation Bias: Look for information that affirms existing beliefs and dismiss that which doesn't a.​ Leads to: Reinforcement of preconceptions and Dismissal of contradictory evidence  b.​ Especially strong when beliefs are emotionally charged or socially reinforced. c.​ People are not inclined to change their beliefs 3.​ Psychological Reactance: A Strong emotional response experienced when our freedom of choice is removed a.​ It can occur when a message is delivered in an overbearing way b.​ Can lead to engagement in the opposite behaviour 4.​ Emotional Numbing: Inundating people with too much concern leads to emotional numbing a.​ Instead of negative reporting, celebrate victories Behavioural Change Stairway Model 1.​ Active Listening: Genuinely hear and understand the other person's perspective. 2.​ Empathy: Show that you emotionally relate to their concerns. 3.​ Rapport: Build mutual trust and connection. 4.​ Influence: Gently guide toward new understanding or behavior. 5.​ Behavioural Change: The final goal, made more likely by all the steps above. Theory of Planned Behaviour 1.​ Attitude: Will doing this make a difference? a.​ Its natural for cats to hunt birds, its mean to keep cats locked up b.​ Tigers are apart of natural food chain not domestic cats 2.​ Subjective Norm: What are others doing? Whats expected of me? a.​ People i know let their cats outside b.​ Cats alike tigers are great hunters which devastated wildlife 3.​ Perceived Behaviour Change: Can i do this? a.​ Its too hard to keep cats inside b.​ Other ways to let your cat outside: Catios, Leash 4.​ Intention: Relies on identifying existing belief system to assess motivation for behaviour change 5.​ Behaviour: Increases engagement through creative and accessible communications influencing change Lecture 12 Part 2 Future of Zoos A different approach is needed: One that can more effectively address multiple threats to biodiversity and Canada’s ecosystems, including the accelerating climate crisis -​ $ Value on Biodiversity: Putting a dollar value on biodiversity helps drive political and institutional investment in conservation. -​ Agricultural industry is worth billions of dollars -​ Seed bank vault -​ Plant Gene Resources of Canada (PGRC) - Canadian national repository for plant genetic resources for food and agriculture -​ What happens with loss of biodiversity -​ Climate change – drought, flooding etc. -​ Loss of habitat and species - pollinators, seed dispersers etc. -​ The Doomsday Vault: The top security seed bank to preserve the world’s vital crops in case of global catastrophe -​ Holds 2.25 billion seeds and cost 8.9 million dollars -​ A genetic resource to ensure crop diversity and the worlds food supply -​ Can withstand nuclear missle attacks -​ Carved into permafrost to maintain frozen perseverance -​ 130 meters above seed level but no flooding risk if greenland or arctic ice melts -​ Toronto Zoo Reverse the Red Hub National & Global Global movement that ignites strategic cooperation and action to ensure the survival of wild species and ecosystems.  -​ Goals: Builds strategic cooperation and data-driven action -​ Halt extinctions -​ Reverse species declines -​ Restore wild populations IUCN Position on Zoos: Zoos play a crucial role in: 1.​ Managing ex situ & in situ populations 2.​ Veterinary health and pathology 3.​ Conservation translocations 4.​ Ethical scientific research 5.​ Community engagement 6.​ Capacity building for global conservation Toronto Zoo Strategic Plan 2034 1.​ Leadership: Become a recognized and celebrated thought leader in conservation, innovation and sustainability in the community, resulting in increased support and visitation. 2.​ Research: Credibility as a conservation science organization recognized through publications, original storytelling, and 20 PhD-level staff members leading world-class research and education programs. 3.​ Engagement: Established meaningful connections with members of our community, resulting in 2 million guests per year to the Zoo site. 4.​ Conservation: 175 species in our care living lives with purpose, supporting their wild counterparts and habitats. 5.​ Canadian Impact: Had a measurable positive impact on 5 Canadian species, improving species listings and establishing viable insurance populations. 6.​ Sustainable: Become a net-zero organization, actively fighting climate change. 7.​ Innovative: Developed the most technologically advanced zoo in the world