Species identified by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) as threatened are targeted by regional Zoological associations which coordinate activities across zoological facilities in the region and around the world with the aim of creating a genetically diverse captive population of that species. A regional Species Co-ordinator is assigned to coordinate the breeding programs for that species throughout the region.
When a breeding program is initiated and an animal sought from another facility as a breeding partner, the species co-ordinator works with governing Zoological authorities to determine which individual animals are genetically best suited — in view of their pedigree, traits, health and history.
A complicated formula is applied to a number of hypothetical pairings and the best possible match is identified. The lower the relatedness of two animals, the higher their value in breeding terms. If there are no obvious impediments to the matching (physical distance between animals, illness of either animal, political unrest or disease threat in either location) the breeding program can commence. This often involves the physical movement of one animal.
Perth Zoo may send its animals out or receive animals from other zoos as part of these breeding activities. Some artificial insemination programs also occur with endangered species. The Zoo is subject to the recommendations and authority of a central Australiasian body (Zoo and Aquarium Assocation) which is, in turn, subject to the guidelines of the Conservation Breeding Specialist Group, an arm of the global organisation, the World Conservation Union (IUCN).
