Fozblog

DPZ Reaccredited by AZA

At the annual conference of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums this week in Philadelphia, Dickerson Park Zoo received a renewal of its accredited standing. As an accredited institution, Dickerson Park Zoo is one of only 216 institutions to carry this designation.

Accreditation involves a thorough review of every facet of an institution: animal care, husbandry and veterinary practices and policies; education programming; staffing; financial stability and more. Once accredited, each facility must go through to the review process at least every five years.

An accreditation review includes an in-depth written application and an on-site visit by a team of industry professionals. When you visit a zoo or aquarium, look for the "Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums" logo as your assurance that a facility upholds the AZA standards which exceed other local, state and federal regulations.

Endangered Species Feature: Cotton-top Tamarin

Cotton-top tamarins are small primates about the size of a squirrel. They weigh less than one pound and get their name from the white crest and mane on their head.

Cotton-top tamarins live in treetops in troops of 10-12 individuals. They are excellent jumpers and use their claws for climbing. Cotton-top tamarins feed primarily on fruits, insects and small vertebrates.

Monogamous pairs use a "helper" system for raising offspring, where males and siblings also carry the infants. Four out of every five births are twins. They are known to live more than 13 years in captivity.

Dickerson Park Zoo is home to three cotton-top tamarins. Josh and Nina were introduced for breeding in late 2006. Their first infant was born August 3. Zookeepers have not yet been able to examine the infant or determine its gender.

Found solely in northwestern Columbia, the cotton-top tamarin is extremely endangered. To date, more cotton-top tamarins live in captivity than in the wild. More than three-quarters of their habitat has been destroyed due to deforestation for settlement, farming and hydroelectric projects. The illegal pet trade and medical research have also contributed to deteriorating populations.

Extinction of the cotton-top tamarin would have serious implications on the delicate ecosystem of northwest Columbia. They are an important source for dispersing seeds throughout the forest.