In the Field

Conservation Strategies in Central Africa

The San Diego Zoo’s Institute for Conservation Research established its Central Africa Program in May 2007, building on previous work conducted in Cameroon since 1999. Its current geographical focus is in the extremely biodiverse, yet understudied rain forest region stretching from the north of the Sanaga River in Cameroon into the remaining forest fragments in Nigeria. 

Living Large: Elephant Conservation in Southern Africa

San Diego Zoo’s Conservation Research has active projects in over 35 countries across the globe, including projects supporting wild elephant conservation. Dr. Michael Chase established Elephants Without Borders (EWB) in 2004, a research-based nonprofit organization in Botswana.

Birth Control Instead of Culling of African Bull Elephants

Elephant population control is a critical conservation issue facing many areas in Africa due to ecosystem damage and decreased biodiversity. Minimally-invasive vasectomies on bull elephants is a method of permanent contraception can be used as a management tool for the control of small populations of elephant and as an alternative to the controversial practice of culling.

Research for the Birds – Endangered Hawaiian Birds, That Is

The Hawaii Endangered Bird Conservation Program (HEBCP) is a unique conservation partnership composed of the San Diego Zoo’s Conservation Research team, government agencies (U.S. Department of the Interior and the State of Hawaii), and Hawaii’s private landowners, working together on the recovery of Hawaii’s most threatened forest birds.

The Thrill of Drill Research in Cameroon

Drills are among the most endangered primate species in Africa and probably the largest monkey species in the world. They are naturally geographically restricted and human impacts further imperil this elusive primate. We are utilizing genetic tools for studying their ecology to make better conservation assessments.

Snub or Hug? Social Dynamics of Snub-nosed Monkeys

Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys are commonly referred to as golden monkeys. They are found in central and southwestern China in Sichuan, Gansu, Shaanxi, and Hubei provinces. In some areas, these monkeys are sympatric with giant pandas.

Check back regularly for additional conservation projects!