In recent years, our effect on the planet has been devastating, with a massive decline in animal numbers and habitats across the globe. EAZA has never believed that keeping animals in our institutions replaces action in the wild - but experience also shows us that the knowledge and finance that we and our visitors can provide to field conservation projects can make a huge difference. EAZA believes that zoos and aquariums form one pillar of the structure that is needed to safeguard the future.
Our approach to species conservation, called the One Plan approach, recognises that zoos and in situ conservationists need not only to work together to protect animals, but also to engage the public of their communities to take the lead in demanding action from authorities, governments, corporations and themselves so that together we can reduce the stress on endangered species and their habitats.
EAZA Members:
In short, EAZA believes that the future of nature depends on all of us; and that EAZA zoos and aquariums can act as a portal for their local communities into conservation across the world.
The EAZA Conservation Database is an online tool to facilitate communication on conservation efforts of our Members within as well as outside of the zoo and aquarium community. Click here to visit the EAZA Conservation Database (Members only)
Interested in what projects, species and activities have been supported by EAZA Members and where these take place? The EAZA Conservation Map uses information from the EAZA Conservation Database to provide visitors of our website an insight. Click on the map to explore it! Functionalities within the EAZA Conservation Map are continually improving as our Members are making their information available over time.
The information represented in the EAZA Conservation Map is based on information provided by EAZA Members in the EAZA Conservation Database and believed to be reliable. EAZA makes a diligent effort to provide a complete and accurate representation of the data in reports, publications, and services. However, EAZA does not guarantee the accuracy, adequacy, or completeness of any information. EAZA disclaims all liability for errors or omissions that may exist and shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential, or other damages (whether resulting from negligence or otherwise) including, without limitation, exemplary damages or lost profits arising out of or in connection with the use of this information. No part of information gathered from the EAZA Conservation Map may be reproduced for use in hard copy, machine-readable or other forms without advance written permission from EAZA and the EAZA Members from which the information originates.
The Brazilian merganser (Mergus octosetaceus) is a Critically Endangered species and one of the most endangered waterfowl in the world. Originally occurring in Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil, the population is currently only found in Brazil and was estimated to be ~250 animals in 2014.
Since 2014, Zooparque Itatiba has been running Projeto Pato-Mergulhão, a breeding project in human care aiming at increasing the ex situ population by offering better survival chances for the ducklings, establishing a secure genetic breeding and later releasing the offspring into their natural habitat.
Zoo Schmiding, Prague Zoo, ICMBio and other partners are supporting the project by providing expertise and financial help. Aviaries and supporting facilities were built to provide a protected environment for the chicks. A study was conducted to investigate behaviours during breeding and raising of the chicks. It was for instance observed that chicks start fishing themselves at day 4!
The team is currently searching for the most suitable release areas for the mergansers. What an exciting next step!
To read more about the project, visit the EAZA Conservation Database.