Spotlight on species: keeper driven conservation education and fundraising

J.Oria, Primate Keeper

Houston Zoo

Texas , USA

joria@houstonzoo.org

Many keepers desire to make a personal contribution to conservation efforts above and beyond their regular work duties, but may lack the resources to do so. By sharing with zoo visitors their love for the animals they care for, as well as their enthusiasm and commitment to conservation, keepers can inspire zoo visitors to become involved in conservation through a weekend event called Spotlight on Species ( SOS ). SOS is an opportunity for keepers to celebrate a species and conservation group they are passionate about. A keeper, or group of keepers, chooses a species they would like to spotlight, and then organizes a weekend devoted to that species. The keeper chooses and creates the activities and materials they would like to use in spotlighting that species, and seeks appropriate approval from management. The keeper recruits and manages staff and volunteers to assist in organizing and carrying out the event. Additionally, the keeper chooses a conservation organization that aids the wild counterparts of the spotlighted species to receive the donations.

Spotlight on Species is a relatively low cost event. There are several inexpensive items that could be used to raise donations: animal paintings, handprints, photographs, handcrafted items, behind-the-scenes tours. A possible resource for startup funds could be the local AAZK chapter. Educational activities could include talks, games, skits, handouts, posters, enrichment or training.

There are several invaluable benefits of having a Spotlight on Species event. It provides a unique experience for zoo visitors, it is a chance to personally engage zoo visitors in conservation efforts, it is an opportunity for keepers to develop their organizational and managerial skills and it is a way to highlight lesser known species. Being able to choose which conservation organization receives the donations is an additional motivator and reward for the keeper organizing the event.