Collaborative effort with SeaWorld nets conservation award
by Katie Pfaff
A collaboration that includes Houston Zoo, Naples Zoo and SeaWorld Parks was bestowed this year’s annual William G. Conway International Conservation Award by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The collaboration, The Giant Armadillo Conservation Program, which manages study of the animals. No Giant Armadillos are in the two zoos or SeaWorld facilities.
"With species disappearing at alarming and increasing rates, conservation leadership has never mattered more. The commitment of these well-respected zoological organizations – Houston Zoo, Naples Zoo, and SeaWorld – is increasing understanding and protection of the giant armadillo. Their collective efforts to save the giant armadillo from extinction is reason for hope, for this species and many others," said Dan Ashe, president and chief executive officer of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Giant Armadillos were named vulnerable to extinction and are considered an indicator species in areas protected for conservation in South America, where the animal resides. The award is given to efforts in preserving habitat and restoring wildlife species. GACP has been studying the Giant Armadillo in Brazil since 2011 as little was known about the behavior and threats to the species.
"Without the support of AZA zoos, we would never have been able to start or continue the Giant Armadillo Conservation Program," said Dr. Arnaud Desbiez, head of GACP. "Even though there are no giant armadillos in AZA collections, zoos have worked together to fund, create new field techniques, build the capacity of the team, and create such a strong partnership that our collective effort now spans four biomes and six conservation initiatives."
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