Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

Animals in zoos live in small enclosed areas. If a pathogen is introduced to the zoo, the animals are extremely vulnerable. The highest risk of introducing new pathogens occurs when new animals are introduced to the collection. Therefore it is essential that zoos have a protocol in place for disease prevention.

This review has studied literature on the subject of disease prevention protocols when translocating animals between zoos. Swedish and EU legislation was also studied as well as the standards set by some of the big zoo organisations in the world. As a complement, Nordens Ark, a Swedish zoo specialised in endangered species, was visited to gain insight on how this issue is handled in reality.

The studies revealed a great shortage in scientific research on the area. However, in the literature available, it is clearly stated that the most important aspect in disease prevention is to have a preventative health program in place at all times.

It is also stated that post transport quarantine is the most effective way to avoid disease from spreading between zoos. The quarantine facilities and length must be adaptable to both the species and the pathogen in question.

At Nordens Ark and other zoos, the legislation and the standards set by the zoo organisations is what sets a basis for how work around disease prevention is carried out. However, the laws and organisations, in comparison to what the literature says, seems to set a minimal standard.

As a result of this review the author of this literature study would like to urge the staff at zoos to find their own way of working with disease prevention.

Since further research is essential to evaluate and evolve this area, the self-evaluation and studies performed by the zoos is a good way to start developing the work with disease prevention protocols.