Why are you inspired by your job?
I love our environment– forests, jungles, oceans, deserts – and I’m fascinated by the amazing diversity of our plants and animals. Being the CEO of the Zoo means that I have some influence in setting the Zoo’s direction and as a consequence building awareness and knowledge of the natural world - making a difference to conserving species and habitats.
What, in your view, is the biggest issue with nature conservation?
The huge human population and our impact on the world is our biggest challenge and, consequently, how people can live more sustainably – locally and globally.
How do you see the role of Perth Zoo in conservation?
With over 630 000 visitors every year, Perth Zoo is one of the State’s biggest attractions. We are in a unique position to help build knowledge and understanding. The more people we can reach, the bigger the difference we can make.
Here at the Zoo we actively aim to build awareness in our visitors and the general public of the natural world and of ways in which people can be more sustainable in their lives to conserve the world for the future.
The Zoo also has a suite of conservation projects which the public can become involved in and support. These projects work with threatened native species here in Western Australia and also in Asia, Africa and New Guinea. By supporting these projects, our visitors and supporters can be assured that their contribution to the Zoo does make a difference.
How can Perth Zoo do that?
Our core work is bringing nature and conservation to the public but rather than just displaying animals our aim is to provide quality experiences that bring people closer to nature and make them value it. We aim to inspire people to get involved with conservation activities through the information we provide on our animals and their habitats. The advocacy of all our staff and volunteers is also central to this by being voices for conservation action. We aim to demonstrate to the public that it is possible to make a positive contribution to conserve threatened species and protect habitats through our successful conservation projects.
What does Perth Zoo do outside its own boundaries?
We’re involved in projects in Africa, Sumatra, Cambodia, Java, Laos and New Guinea. We also work in situ in Western Australia. For example, we have bred over 2000 animals at the Zoo that have been released into protected habitat in Western Australia in conjunction with the State Department of Environment and Conservation. We are also part of a regional and global network which breeds animals cooperatively as insurance populations and for zoo display.
One of these projects involves tree kangaroos – why this species?
The tree kangaroo species found in New Guinea are endangered as a result of overhunting and habitat loss. They are an amazing and beautiful animal and really demonstrate the wonder of evolution and adaption. They are marsupials, found in tropical north Queensland and New Guinea that have completely adapted to living in trees. They have large hind legs and narrow feet, which allow them to move fast on the ground, but they also have very strong forelimbs to help them climb trees.
What is your view of NGOs?
An essential part of the way we work in zoos is in partnership with other organisations, governments, departments and NGOs. Particularly in developing countries, NGOs do a lot of core work in conservation, as governments are not resourced well. As the knowledge of the effectiveness of integrated conservation approaches has risen, so the work of NGOs has become more and more effective. The Zoo can bring a lot to NGOs with our input on breeding programs and husbandry approaches, particularly with critically endangered species where additional breeding and breed for release is necessary. We can also provide input on research technique, small population modeling, conservation medicine and engaging people in building effective programs to conserve species and habitat. While NGOs may operate on the ground, the Zoo as a partner is a valuable contributor to achieving conservation outcomes.
Tell us about the Tenkile program?
Little is known about the tree kangaroo because it lives in remote areas and there are very few remaining. An amazing conservation group, Tenkile Conservation Alliance, is working in the Torincelli Mountains in New Guinea on the conservation of tree kangaroos. It is a wonderful conservation program, which involves working closely with the local communities in sustainable farming practices, education programs and alternative protein supplies to minimise the need to hunt tree kangaroos for food. Perth Zoo’s fundraising program supports Tenkile Conservation Alliance and has done for some years.
What can individuals do to help conservation?
Get involved with conservation activities and live more lightly on the planet.
If you want to get involved in conservation, learn how Perth Zoo can help. Visit http://www.perthzoo.wa.gov.au/act/
Find out more about the conservation organizations which our featured staff support.
Photos courtesy of Phil England and Susan Hunt.
