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RussianiZoofari Chat: Releasing Endangered Hawaiian Birds
Posted at 3:10 pm October 8, 2007 by Dennis Corbran
The San Diego Zoo is involved in a program to save some tiny endangered birds native to Hawaii. In this episode, conservation program manager Alan Lieberman talks about the recent release of captive-bred Hawaii creepers and ‘akepa into their native habitat. Hosted by Debbie Andreen. (18:26)
Listen to the ‘akepa
Listen to the Hawaii creeper
Read Alan’s blog about the releases.
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December 27th, 2007 at 12:00 am
Hello,
I have always enjoyed visiting zoos, particularly the San Diego Zoo because most of the animals’ environmental, behavioral, and emotional needs are sufficiently catered to. However, I have been informed by many sources that keeping animals in captivity does not save the animals in the wild. Isn’t the key to saving animals by saving their habitat, not removing them from it and placing them in an alien environment? I have been told that placing captive bread species in the wild usually fail and many have been found carrying lethal viruses from other zoo animals. Also, wouldn’t animals have their DNA altered to cope with their captive environment? Therefore, lowering the chance of these animals ever surviving back in their natural habitats? I think the idea of saving these birds and making an effort to save our ecosystem is wonderful. However, is this the best way? Evidently you can see a possible positive outcome, which is why I am wondering what your point of view is on this situation and how you believe the San Diego Zoo will save these animals.
Thank you,
Lauren Kang