2.3 The WZACS emphasises that zoos and aquariums must not work independently in re-introduction or translocation programmes but must work with other institutions, and always with the appropriate government authorities, the relevant IUCN SSC Specialist Groups, and other governmental and non-governmental conservation agencies, particularly those in the host country, and with the relevant national or regional zoo and aquarium associations.
Response:
Aquariums fully recognise that re-introduction or translocation programmes must be conducted in accordance with IUCN and national government guidelines.
Action
For public aquariums, national and regional aquarium/zoo associations and partners to:
■ follow guidance from the IUCN Re-introduction Specialist Group well in advance of any proposed re-introductions, translocations and releases;
■ liaise closely with relevant government departments, NGOs and regional associations when conducting re-introduction programmes;
■ consider Key Biodiversity Areas (‘hotspots’) and other recognised priority conservation areas, in conservation and re-introduction programmes;
■ develop and regularly review an institutional policy for the disposal of surplus stock, with a presumption against release to the wild save in appropriate and fully authorised circumstances;
■ plan and assess the suitability of at least one officially endorsed re-introduction project for conservation purposes per aquarium association.
2.4 The WZACS strongly recommends that, where possible, zoos and aquariums recruit, train and support conservation staff for work in the wild; the WZACS also applauds those zoos, aquariums and partner institutions that have set up training courses for conservation professionals, and encourages other institutions to consider setting up their own courses or offer assistance to those courses already operating.
Response
Aquariums and their associations should provide training or other support for their own staff and, where possible and appropriate, other conservation professionals.
Action
For public aquariums, national and regional aquarium/zoo associations and partners to:
■ plan or provide support for at least one training course per aquarium association for resource management personnel in, for example, basic species identification, sampling techniques or other subjects relevant to conservation and sustainability;
■ encourage management, scientific, curatorial and keeping staff to get involved in field conservation activities, so gaining ‘on the job’ experience which is of immediate practical benefit and which can, in turn, be communicated to other colleagues.