an innovative approach to training guest … · conservation briefs – shelly samm education forum...

Volume 37, Number 4 ~ Fourth Quarter 2012

ISSN # 1007-016X

Magazine of the International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

CARE AND HANDLING OF NEONATE BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS

GUEST INTERACTION WITH ASIAN SMALL CLAWED OTTERS (Aonyx cinerea)

AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO TRAINING

DeDicateD to aDvancing the humane care anD hanDling of marine animals by fostering communication between professionals that serve marine animal science through training, public Display, research, husbanDry, conservation, anD eDucation.

Soundings is published four times a year by the International Marine Animal Trainers Association (IMATA) as a service to its members. Submissions of manuscripts, photographs, and illustrations are welcomed and encouraged, but will be returned only if accompanied by a return envelope and adequate postage. Any material accepted is subject to such revision as is necessary in our sole discretion to meet the requirements of publication. Soundings is produced using Microsoft Word; the style manual followed is the fifth edition (2002) Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association. Electronic submissions are preferred and can be sent to IMATA Soundings Chief Editor, Heather Keenan, at: [email protected]. (Typed submissions will also be accepted and should be double spaced on 8.5” x 11” paper.) Include the name, address, FAX number, and phone number of the author on the title page. Slides and hard copy or photographs can be color or black and white; photographs should be at least 3” x 5”. Digital photographs are welcomed and should have adequate resolution when viewed on a computer screen. For all images, include captions, identify all recognizable persons, and include a photo credit. The act of submitting an article, photograph, or illustration constitutes an agreement that (1) the materials are free of copyright restrictions, (2) photo releases have been obtained, and (3) the material may be published by IMATA in Soundings or other IMATA publications. Deadlines for submission are 15 November, 15 February, 15 May, and 15 August. Submissions should be addressed to Heather Keenan, Soundings Chief Editor, email [email protected] or mailed to IMATA, 1200 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois, USA, or faxed to (312) 939-2216. Address changes should be sent to IMATA’s Secretary, Jennifer Leach, at the same address. Address changes can also be made online at IMATA’s web site, www.imata.org.

©Copyright 2012. All of the articles contained within Soundings are the personal views of the respective authors and do not necessarily represent the views of IMATA or its Board of Directors.

contact us1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60605 USAPHONE (312) 692-3193 • FAX (312) [email protected] or visit our website at www.imata.org

Design & proDuctionLunar Cow137 S. Main Street, STE 202 • Akron, OH 44308(330) 253-9000 • www.lunarcow.com

regional reporter contact informationAssociate Editor: Nicole O’Donnell [email protected] Associate Editor: Martha Hill [email protected]: Philip Wong [email protected]/New Zealand: Ryan Tate [email protected]: Brian Sheehan [email protected] Islands: Adrian Penny [email protected] Europe North Central: Christiane Thiere [email protected] Europe Northeast: Sunna Edberg [email protected] Northwest: John-Rex Mitchell [email protected] South Central: Pablo Joury [email protected] Southwest: Monika Lechermeier [email protected]: Haruhiko Kato [email protected] Alex Mata [email protected] East: Tommy Wilken [email protected] Islands: Stephanie Vlachos [email protected]/Ukraine: Monika Lechermeier [email protected] South Africa: Gabby Harris [email protected] America Miguel Marques [email protected]. Midwest: Stacey Lonski [email protected]. North Central: John-Rex Mitchell [email protected]. Northeast: Beth Manning [email protected]. Northwest: Cinthia Alia-Mitchell [email protected]. South Central: Shannon Ray [email protected]. Southeast: Sarah Graff [email protected]. Southwest: Brittany Harris [email protected]

imata boarD of Directors

committee chairs

chief eDitors

presiDentSHELLEY WOODABC Animal Training Dolphin Discovery

first vice presiDentGRANT ABELOcean Park Hong Kong

seconD vice presiDentMICHELLE SOUSAAquarium of the Pacific

thirD vice presiDentKELLY FLAHERTY CLARKSeaWorld Orlando

presiDent-electERIC GAGLIONEGeorgia Aquarium

accreDitationBILLY HURLEYGeorgia Aquarium

animal training aDvisoryTODD COFFMANSeaWorld Orlando

DENNIS CHRISTENGeorgia Aquarium

central officeKEN RAMIREZJohn G. Shedd Aquarium

conservation anD researchDEBI COLBERTAssociation of Zoos and Aquariums

eDucation servicesMADELYNN HETTIGERJohn G. Shedd Aquarium

financeTRACI BELTINGSeattle Aquarium

historianCHERYL MESSINGERDolphin Connection

honors anD awarDsNICOLE O’DONNELLNavy Marine Mammal Program

proceeDingsLAURA YEATESNational Marine Mammal Foundation

sounDingsHEATHER KEENANMiami Seaquarium

past presiDentMICHAEL OSBORNMystic Aquarium

treasurerPATTY SCHILLINGNew England Aquarium

secretaryJENNIFER LEACHSeaWorld San Diego

Director-at-largeLAURA YEATESNational Marine Mammal Foundation

legislation, information, anD policyMICHAEL OSBORNMystic Aquarium

membership servicesSUNNA EDBERGKolmarden

LAURA YEATESNational Marine Mammal Foundation

merchanDiseANN HOEDTGeorgia Aquarium

nominations anD electionsMICHAEL OSBORNMystic Aquarium

public relations anD promotionsMICHAEL HUNTGeorgia Aquarium

publications PATRICK BERRYGulfarium Marine Adventure Park

regional workshopsSTACI LONSKIIndianapolis Zoo

sponsorshipCHRIS SCULLIONSAIC BioSolutions

web siteBEAU RICHTERLong Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

Front Cover Photo Credit: Valerie Greene

chief eDitor HEATHER KEENAN – Miami Seaquarium

eDitorial Director

SHELLEY WOOD – ABC Animal TrainingDolphin Discovery

associate eDitor

SUZANNE SMITH – Louisiana Marine Mammal & Sea Turtle Resue Program

BACK TO BASICS – Benjamin SchreinerENRICHING ENVIRONMENTS – Ronnie Smith

OFF THE SHELF – John Widick PRODUCT PROFILE – Chris Scullion

TRAINER’S FORUM – Robert Roozendaal

associate eDitorMARTHA HILL – Sea Life Park Hawaii

REGIONAL REPORTS

associate eDitorDENNIS CHRISTEN – Georgia Aquarium

WHAT’S UP DOC – Jen DeGroot CONSERVATION BRIEFS – Shelly Samm

EDUCATION FORUM – Jason JonesINNERviews – Kevin Roberts

NOTICES & ANNOUNCEMENTS – Haley Merritt RESEARCH BRIEFS – Beau Richter

associate eDitor

NICOLE O’DONNELL – Navy Marine Mammal Program CONFERENCE COUNTDOWN – Grant Abel

CONFERENCE SITE SELECTION – Michelle SousaLIP SYNC – Mark Xitco

MEMBERSHIP UPDATES – Jennifer LeachMERCHANDISE – Ann Hoedt

NOMINATIONS & ELECTIONS – Mike OsbornPRESIDENT’S CORNER – Shelley Wood

REGIONAL WORKSHOP REPORTS – Staci Lonski

associate eDitorNEDRA HECKER

FEATURE ARTICLESMichael Belshaw, Marineland Antibes

Traci Belting, Seattle AquariumLinda Beverly, Indianapolis Zoo

Margaret Black, Mystic Aquarium Sarah Brignac, Dolphin Research Center

Carmen Colitz DVM, Animal Eye Specialty ClinicMatt Fripp, SeaWorld San Diego

Scott Hjerling, Coral WorldAndy Johnson, Monterey Bay Aquarium

Nina Lambert, Theater of the SeaBrett Long, Alaska SeaLife Center

Catherine ‘CJ’ Johnson, Knoxville ZooNina Lambert, National Aquarium in Baltimore

Patrick W. B. Moore, SAIC BioSolutionsKen Ramirez, John G. Shedd Aquarium

Terry Samansky, DolphinTrainer.comPatty Schilling, New England Aquarium

Grey Stafford, Wildlife World ZooJohn Widick, Clearwater Marine Aquarium

historian

CHERYL MESSINGER – The Dolphin Connection

photo archivistMARK TODD - SAIC BioSolutions

fillers anD factoiDs

DENNIS CHRISTEN - Georgia Aquarium

publications chairPATRICK BERRY – Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

AsiaAustralia

CanadaCaribbean Islands

Europe North CentralEurope Northeast

Europe NorthwestEurope South Central

Europe SouthwestJapan

MexicoMiddle East

Pacific IslandsRussia/Ukraine

South AfricaSouth AmericaU.S. Midwest

U.S. North CentralU.S. Northeast

U.S. NorthwestU.S. South Central

U.S. SoutheastU.S. Southwest

Philip WongRyan TateBrian SheehanAdrian PennyChristiane ThiereSunna EdbergJohn-Rex MitchellPablo JouryMonika LechermeierHaruhiko Kato Alex MataTommy Wilken Stephanie VlachosMonika LechermeierGabby HarrisMiguel MarquesStacey LonskiJohn-Rex MitchellBeth ManningCinthia Alia-MitchellShannon RaySarah GraffBrittany Harris

VoluMe 37, NuMber 4 ~ FourTh QuArTer 2012

MAgAzINe oF The INTerNATIoNAl MArINe ANIMAl TrAINerS’ ASSocIATIoN

2716

10

FeATureS10 an innovative approach to

training guest interaction with asian small claweD ottersabandoning the use of primary reinforcement when training interactions

27 care anD hanDling of neonate bottlenose Dolphinsa clinical and behavioral approach

IMATA buSINeSS6 presiDent's corner

new committee introduced

14 election resultswelcoming imata's 2013 board of Directors

16 conference countDownfinal details for hong kong 2012

32 site selectionannouncement of the 2013 imata conference

DePArTMeNTS5 conservation briefs

features conservation tidbits from around the world

8 what's up Doccarrie goertz, ms, Dvmstaff veterinarian & strandingprogram manageralaska sealife center

18 regional reports keep up on news from imata members around the world

24 trainer's forumkeeping animals engaged at station during shows.

26 notices & announcementsinformation on upcoming workshops, seminars, conferences, and more

Coral Reefs Aiding in Medical ScienceThe chemistry that helps form the oceans’ amazing landscapes of corals is actually

aiding in the treatment of cancer. Using the chemicals that create the coral reefs, scientists are deriving drugs that have shown positive effects on treating certain

cancers and leukemia. Ara-C, a chemotherapy drug derived from a sea sponge, has aided in the treatment of leukemia. Halaven®, a drug also from a sea sponge, which improves survival rates for men and women who have metastatic breast cancer, became available in November 2010. The challenge is that 90% of the Caribbean’s corals have been diminished by climate

change and waterway pollution. Scientists at the Nature Conservancy have created coral farms to sustainably harvest the life-saving properties of the reef. The farms, supporting over 30,000 corals around Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands, grow the corals by gluing some to cinder blocks on the ocean floor and hanging others from ropes that float in the water. Their goal is to produce 4,000 corals a year. Along with current discoveries in the treatment of certain cancers and leukemia, more research is showing promise for treating AIDS and perhaps even Lupus, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. (msnbc.com-Nightly News)

Whale Alert App to Save WhalesMariners along the east

coast of the United States have one more way to know if there are any critically endangered North Atlantic right whales (Eubalaena glacialis) in their paths. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary research team along with several other groups have developed a free application for iPads and iPhones that warns ships when they enter areas of high risk for collision with whales. Whale Alert’s display links near real-time acoustic buoys that listen for right whales’ calls to an iPad or iPhone on the ship’s bridge. This display

shows the whales’ presence to those traveling the shipping lanes in and around the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. The Bioacoustics Research Program at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology helped develop the acoustic detection and warning system. The app incorporates Global Positioning System (GPS), Automatic

Identification System, Internet, and digital nautical chart technologies to alert mariners to NOAA’s right whale conservation measures which are active in their immediate vicinity. North Atlantic right whales are among the world’s rarest large animals. With a habitat range from Nova Scotia to Florida, recent estimates of their populations are approximately 350-550 animals. Collision with ships is a leading cause of right whale deaths. (NOAA)

Windy Fish Farms

Researchers have found the wind farm, located off Denmark’s westernmost point, is providing an artificial environment in which fish can thrive. Located in no more than 20 meters (65.6 feet) of water, 80 huge turbines harness the wind associated with the area’s strong wave action. Normally this extremely tough environment is too rough for the survival of the seaweed forest and small fish, but with the addition of large piles of stone surrounding the turbines footing in the seabed to prevent erosion, new artificial reefs have been introduced. These areas provide shelter and food for fish, which normally are found in the rocky sea floor away from of strong currents. The researchers studying this area also found that the sandeel (Ammodytes marinus), one of the most important fish for the Danish fishing industry, has not been affected by the mills, even though these animals are largely dependent upon the fine sand where the turbines were built. They are hopeful that the positive reef effects are even greater for a park located in more sheltered waters, such as Kattegat. Wind power is a non-polluting source of energy, and it contributes significantly to minimization of CO2 emissions. Moreover, offshore wind turbines provide an added environmental benefit: the output from offshore installations is up to 50% higher than for comparable turbines on land. (ScienceDaily)

CONSERVATION BRIEFS is compiled by Shelly Samm.

Marine sponge (Halichondria okadai). Photo Credit: Dr. Paul May, University of Bristol

North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glaciali).Photo Credit: NOAA

Image of an alert of whale activity on an iPad. Photo Credit: NOAA

Atlantic Puffin with a beak full of sandeels. Photo Credit: Steve Garvie

Horns Rev 1 wind farm, Denmark. Photo Credit: Vattenfall

SouNDINgS publication

5SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 44 Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012

The last quarter of 2012 has been a busy one for IMATA. In September, Dolphin Research Center played host to a well-attended regional workshop in the Florida Keys. Attendees took part in on-site workshop activities, live training demonstrations and the opportunity to visit other local marine parks. Meanwhile, IMATA’s leadership team was busy working out the final details for the 2012 conference in Hong Kong. First Vice President, Grant Abel and his team have set up a great program for the first-ever Asian conference hosted by Ocean Park Hong Kong. We are all confident it will be a great success and are looking forward to seeing you there.

As a professional animal trainer and educator, I am encouraged by institutions such as Ocean Park Hong Kong and Dolphin Research Center who generously donate their time, vision, and finances to host these IMATA events. This networking and information exchange helps define our roles as true professionals in an honorable and fulfilling career.

Our growing global diversity and need for both the annual conference and regional workshops has led us to form the new Public Relations & Promotions Committee, chaired by Michael Hunt. As a past-officer, Michael is uniquely qualified to harness social media and other technology to provide announcements about related news events for IMATA and our members. I am proud that Michael has again agreed to volunteer his talents for our association.

I am also proud to announce that IMATA’s leadership is working hard for our members and our environment by preparing a detailed plan to “go-green” in 2013. In cooperation with Lunar Cow and IMATA’s digital media team, an electronic version of Soundings will be launched in 2013 and will be reborn as eSoundings. The development of eSoundings is an essential element in our global growth, not only in our ability to effectively communicate in multiple languages, but to provide and share information in a timely and economic manner. Please stay tuned for more development on this exciting project.

It has been an honor serving this association and I look forward to continuing our movement forward with the 2013 IMATA leadership and members.

El último trimestre de 2012 ha estado muy ocupado para IMATA. En septiembre, Dolphin Research Center fue sede de un workshop de entrenamiento regional en los Cayos de Florida. Los asistentes participaron en las actividades del workshop la locación, demostraciones en vivo de entrenamiento, y la oportunidad de visitar otros parques marinos locales. Mientras tanto, el equipo de liderazgo de IMATA estaba ocupado trabajando en los detalles finales para la conferencia de 2012 en Hong Kong. El Vicepresidente, Abel Grant y su equipo han creado un gran programa para la conferencia internacional que se celebra en Asia por primera, organizado por Ocean Park de Hong Kong. Todos estamos seguros de que será un gran éxito y esperamos verlos allí.

Como entrenador profesional de animales y educador, me siento alentada por instituciones como Ocean Park en Hong Kong y Dolphin Research Center que generosamente donan su tiempo, su visión y el dinero para acoger estos eventos IMATA. Este intercambio de información continua ayuda a definir nuestro papel como verdaderos profesionales de esta carrera de forma honorable y satisfactoria.

Nuestra diversidad y la necesidad de crecer a nivel mundial, tanto para la conferencia anual y workshops regionales, nos ha llevado a formar el nuevo Comité de Relaciones públicas y Promociones, presidido por Michael Hunt. Como responsabilidad pasada, Michael es el único calificado para aprovechar las redes sociales y otras tecnologías, para proporcionar anuncios sobre eventos y noticias relacionados sobre IMATA y nuestros miembros. Estoy orgullosa de que Michael haya aceptado dar su talento voluntariamente para nuestra asociación.

También estoy orgullosa de anunciar que el equipo de lideres IMATA está trabajando duro para nuestros miembros y nuestro medio ambiente, mediante la preparación de un plan detallado para "ser verdes" en 2013. En cooperación con Lunar Cow y el equipo de medios digitales IMATA, una versión electrónica de Soundings se pondrá en marcha en 2013 y va a renacer como eSoundings. El desarrollo de eSoundings es un elemento fundamental en nuestro crecimiento global, no sólo en nuestra capacidad de comunicarse de manera efectiva en varios idiomas, sino también para proporcionar y compartir información de una manera oportuna y económica. Por favor, estén atentos para más noticias de este emocionante proyecto.

Ha sido un honor servir a esta asociación y esperamos continuar con nuestro moviéndonos hacia delante con los lideres y los miembros IMATA 2013.

对于国际海洋动物训练员协会来说，2012年的最后一个季度仍旧是一个繁忙的季节。在9月份，海豚研究中心在佛罗里达州礁群岛举办了一届参加人数众多的区域研讨会。参

会人员参与了现场研讨会的活动，观摩了现场训练演示并参观了当地其它的一些海洋公园。同时，协会的领导团队为确定2012年香港年会最后的一些细节在不辞辛苦地工作。协会第一副主席魏伟宝先生和他的团队为香港海洋公园举办有史以来第一次在亚洲召开的年会，已经制定了一个非常全面细致的方案。我们都坚信此次年会一定能够取得圆满成功，期待与各位在香港相见！

作为一名职业的动物训练员和教育工作者，香港海洋公园和海豚研究中心这样的一些机构令我受到极大的鼓舞，因为这些机构都在无私地奉献他们的时间和专业知识以及提供经济资助来举办协会的各种活动。在一个如此高尚和能带来巨大职业满足感的行业里，这样的平台和信息的互通有无将有助于我们这些真正的专业人员在这个行业中发挥应有的作用。

全球行业内发展的日益多样化以及对召开年会和区域研讨会的需求已经促使我们成立一个新的公共关系和推广委员会，由Michael Hunt先生担任主席。作为协会的前任官员，Michael是协会唯一授权可以通过社会媒体和利用其它手段来发布有关协会及其会员的信息的人。很荣幸地告诉大家Michael再一次同意发挥他的才能来为我们的协会继续服务。

我还很高兴地宣布协会的领导们正在制定一个有关2013年“走向绿色”的详细计划来更好地为会员服务和保护环境。通过与Lunar Cow公司和协会的数字媒体团队的合作，电子版本的Soundings将在2013年推出，并重新改名为eSoundings。在协会全球化的发展过程中，eSoundings是一个必不可少的部分，这个新版本的刊物不但让我们尽可能利用多种语言进行有效的交流，还让我们能以一种更经济更及时的方式提供和分享信息。让我们对这个令人振奋的项目拭目以待！

能为这个协会服务一直以来都是我的荣幸，我将期待和2013年协会的领导们以及会员们一起不断前进。

Kent Burgess It is with sincere sadness that we share the news that IMATA’s first President, Kent

Burgess, passed away on September 18, 2012 at 85 years of age. Elected as IMATA President in 1974, Kent served a vital role in founding our organization and establishing excellence in marine mammal training. He began his career at Animal Behavior Enterprises (ABE) in Hot Springs, Arkansas, which was founded by Keller and Marian Breland, graduate students of famed behaviorist B.F. Skinner. As Chief Trainer for ABE in the 1950’s, Kent served as a dolphin training consultant for Marineland of Florida (then known as Marine Studios). During this time, ABE successfully applied the first use of a bridging stimulus with marine mammals at the Marine Studios dolphin show, which was renowned for presenting the world’s first trained dolphins. This important work paved the way for many additional advancements, including the first written training manual and establishing a system for training trainers. Kent went on to consult with Marineland of the Pacific in the 1950’s as well. In the 1960’s Kent was hired to help establish the Navy’s fledgling dolphin research program at Point Mugu, California, and then moved on to become the Director of Training at Sea World San Diego, where he was one of the first to train killer whales. Kent went on to become the Director of Training at Opryland USA. He earned a BS degree at Harding College and a MS degree at University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Billie Burgess, his children, grandchildren and great-grand children. Condolences can be shared with Kent’s son, Patrick Burgess, at [email protected] or 8463 Bed Straw Street, Parker, CO 80134.

In Memoriam

76 SOUNDINGS 2012 Volume 37, Number 4Volume 37, Number 4 SOUNDINGS 2012

The goal of marine wildlife rehabilitation is to return stranded animals to the ocean. In the United States regulations require rehabilitated marine mammals be released within six months unless they fail to meet release criteria. Specifically, released animals should be able to survive once returned to the wild and not adversely affect wild populations. While an animal’s medical and nutritional needs must be addressed, treatment plans and husbandry are designed to keep the wild in wild animals, so the ultimate destination is determined by its individual condition, not the care received. Rehabilitation centers work collaboratively with regulatory agencies to assess animals and determine the appropriate disposition. Using Standards for Release developed by National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), release potential is determined based on an assessment of health, behavior, and ecological factors following an evaluation of historical, medical, and husbandry records.

Routine medical tests required to evaluate release potential are often the same in determining placement potential. In both cases, an animal must be free of conditions that would adversely affect other animals. These tests may include complete blood counts, serum chemistries, fecal analyses, and evidence of exposure to viruses such as Morbillivirus or Brucella. If the decision to place an animal has been made and a home is identified, additional testing may be required by the receiving facility or its state veterinarian. In the end, it is often a physical or developmental limitation that would preclude success following release rather than a medical issue that tilts a decision to find a home in an aquarium. These cases can be challenging for their new homes, but they can also carry very strong conservation messages. Animals with missing, broken, or deformed limbs as well as extensive body scarring from ship strikes or entanglement clearly communicate the need for better stewardship of our world.

A second reason individuals are placed into human care rather than released back to their natural environment is if they were not weaned from their mother when admitted. While young of some species, such as harbor seals (Phoca vitulina), do much of their learning on their own, other species, such as sea otters (Enhydra lutris) and walrus (Odobenus rosmarus), spend an extended maternal period learning life’s lessons.

Monterey Bay Aquarium has a highly successful foster program pairing sea otter pups with mature female otters as surrogates to enable releasing pups once weaned, but the program’s capacity is limited. Consequently, young otters without mentors and all Alaskan sea otters miss out on important survival skills difficult for caregivers to teach and are thus not candidates for release. The Alaska SeaLife Center has placed over a dozen sea otter pups at facilities from coast to coast, most recently Meshik at Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium, and MoJoe at Oregon Coast Aquarium.

A third reason individuals may be non-releasable is due to imprinting. Rehabilitation centers work hard to prevent animals from imprinting by limiting human contact and delivering food remotely. Some animals can be encouraged to learn on their own through careful husbandry. This is most easily done with species that have shorter maternal investment periods such as phocid, and to some extent, otariid pinnipeds. Despite best efforts, some animals still imprint, and associate people with food and companionship. Following release this association would increase

What’s Up Doc?

Carrie Goertz, MS, DVMStaff Veterinarian & Stranding Program ManagerAlaska SeaLife Center

Dr. Goertz, why do some rehabilitated marine mammals get deemed non-releasable and placed in zoological facilities, and why is this important?”

w/the risk of becoming a nuisance or problem animal. People misinterpret the released animals’ desire for food as an indication they are tame or safe, which can result in possible injury to the person or animal. Sometimes imprinting becomes unavoidable due to prolonged or intensive treatment. Onyx, an orphaned harbor seal in Alaska, developed cataracts and became blind. The long recovery following surgery to restore vision prevented release prior to onset of Alaska’s harsh winter. The combination of his youth at admission, intensive hands-on post-surgical treatment, and the lengthy rehabilitation compromised his ability to survive in the wild, and Onyx was declared non-releasable. Young, imprinted animals can make good candidates for zoological facilities as they already have accepted human care and are at an age where they typically learn quickly.

Stranding programs across the country respond to dozens of calls each day, year round, about evenly split between live and dead animals. These events contribute to our scientific knowledge of marine mammals and our understanding of their ocean ecosystem. The value of these animals to educational outreach alone is incalculable. However, some of the more unique species also provide opportunities to better understand their biology. Non-releasable Hawaiian monk seals (Monachus schauninslandi), Guadalupe fur seals (Arctocephalus townsendi), and ice seals, including ringed (Pusa hispida) and spotted seals (Phoca largha), are providing valuable information about their species which live in logistically challenging areas and are not routinely seen in aquaria.

Another legacy of these programs is the rehabilitation graduates. These individual animals and their stories often make the difference to the public. Of stranded animals found alive, almost half survive and are returned to their environment, and less than one percent are transferred to zoological facilities for permanent care. Over the past decade, NOAA has placed 165 non-releasable stranded animals, including eight cetacean and 15 pinniped species, into permanent care. Of the USFWS managed species, there are over 40 Florida manatees (Trichechus manatus) and 50 sea otters in facilities, almost all of which were

originally rescued when found injured or otherwise in distress. These animals are the poster children of stranding programs, each one with a compelling story. They are ambassadors and are vital to communicating important messages about their species and ecosystems to the public, inspiring people to action while continuing to provide valuable scientific information.

WHAT’S UP DOC? is compiled by Jen DeGroot

Forty years ago, the US Congress passed the Marine Mammal Protection Act which established a national policy to, in general, maintain the health and stability of the marine ecosystem but also to specifically manage marine mammal species so they remain a vital part of the oceans. This landmark conservation act has been amended several times with one of the more notable amendments establishing the National Marine Mammal Health and Stranding Program. This program formalized a network of organizations, now over 100, to investigate and respond to strandings in all coastal states and help monitor the health of marine mammal populations nationwide.

Stranding programs across the country respond to dozens of calls each day, almost evenly split between live and dead animals. These events generate tremendous public interest though the true value of overall program comes from the huge legacy of scientific knowledge. This program has been so successful that last year the International Association of Aquatic Animal Medicine presented NOAA/NMFS its Mark Keyes Award for Marine Mammal Conservation.

Dr. Carrie Goertz feeds a bottle of formula to a stranded walrus calf (Odobenus rosmarus) at Alaska SeaLife Center.

Photo credit: Alaska SeaLife Center/

USFWS-ASLC Stranding Agreement

A stranded spotted seal pup (Phoca largha) at Alaska SeaLife Center.

Photo credit: Alaska SeaLife Center/ NMFS-ASLC Stranding Agreement

Supplemental Information about the MMPA and the NMMHSP


unique team of Animal Ambassadors that carry the company’s educational messages outside the park boundaries. One species on the Animal Ambassador team is the Asian small-clawed otter (Aonyx cinerea), chosen to represent threatened animals, and to educate audiences about conservation.

Otters are naturally gregarious and playful and have captivated the public for years. (Allen, 2010). Asian small-clawed otters’ inherent appeal allows them to function as ambassadors for the entire otter family. Almost half of the 13 otter species are either endangered or vulnerable, with a very high or high risk of extinction in the wild in the foreseeable future (Kruuk, 2006). Therefore the Asian small-clawed otter makes an excellent candidate to represent all otters as an Animal Ambassador.

Historically, SeaWorld’s guest interaction otters were trained using traditional operant conditioning methods which included the application of primary reinforcement (Kazdin, 2001). There are several significant behaviors in the repertoire of an interaction animal. Animal Ambassador otters are conditioned to wear a harness and walk on a leash. There is a pick-up behavior, which involves the trainer lifting the animal, holding it, manipulating it, and desensitizing the animal to touch. They also need to enter and exit a kennel and travel for extended periods. Most importantly, Ambassador otters need to be comfortable in a variety of new environments.

Prior to this project, otters in SeaWorld’s Ambassador program were either separated from their parents for hand-rearing, or geriatric show animals who were retired due to physical limitations. While largely successful, each of these two scenarios presented complications.

The lack of parental involvement with animals that are hand-reared may contribute to less than desirable behavior (Meder, 1988), and indeed some less than desirable behaviors were observed with SeaWorld’s hand-reared Ambassador otters. Trainers with years of experience alongside the animals reported some aggression, over-grooming, and excessive vocalizations that may have been connected to no parental rearing (Beaver, 2011). Problems also arose when behavior, dependent upon strong relationships built with just a few trainers, could not be replicated when other trainers tried to perform them during interactions.

One limiting factor of primary reinforcement is that it may lose its effectiveness rather quickly, a phenomenon known as satiation (Chance, 2009). While primary reinforcement allows for the successful training of behaviors in the interaction repertoire, the reliance on it creates difficulties. Some of those were noted with SeaWorld

interaction otters. The dependence on primary reinforcement restricted the type and

length of interactions with the public because the otters could not be relied upon to perform an interaction once satiated (Beaver, 2011), and relying on it during an interaction contributed to the refusal of critical behaviors, the most significant being kenneling

(Gwinn, 2011).

The Goal

The goal at SeaWorld Orlando was to learn from our predecessors and achieve interactive success with fewer behavioral complications. In 2007 and 2008 two litters, each 1.1 of Asian small-clawed river otters were born as part of SeaWorld’s participation in the Species Survival Plan (SSP) program. The training team was challenged with conditioning these four young otters to travel easily, adapt to new environments quickly, accept touch from strangers, and be able to be handled by a company spokesperson. Upon weaning, around three months of age, all four otter kits (Boris, Natasha, Dunder, and Mifflin) were placed in the new training program.

Chosen candidates remained with their parents until they were completely weaned and independent. The objective with the otters was a challenging one; SeaWorld wanted to train the acceptance of new environments and situations by relying on an established trainer’s reinforcement history through interaction using unconditioned reinforcement. Unconditioned reinforcers are reinforcing without requiring special learning or training (Kazdin, 2001). If the SeaWorld team conditioned the relationship appropriately, the otters would not expect their trainer to expose them to a negative situation. In order to ensure consistency and build relationships (individual reinforcement histories), the training team was limited to four people.

The animals were conditioned to be held, manipulated, and kenneled, multiple times per session, and interactions took place in a variety of environments. These otters were not expected to perform in a show scenario, and behavioral requests of the animals were consistent. These factors all allowed for a lot of exposure to trainers, and numerous playful interactions.

The approach incorporated a training regimen in which the otter kits were fed to satiation multiple times throughout the day, and food was never associated with playful, touch, or pick-up behaviors. The timing of initial interactions was strategic in that they occurred following a feeding during which the otters ate to satiation. This satiated state ensured the otters would not exhibit unwanted behavior (biting, etc.) typically associated with a hunger drive. Since the trainers did not feed from their hands, the otters should not have associated food with trainers’ hands and that also likely contributed to less biting behavior.

Asian small-clawed otters are often observed resting in a den or ‘holt’ (Kruuk, 2006). A kennel was introduced as a den or holt making certain that the animals were as familiar with it as possible. It was hoped that the exposure to the kennel in a reinforcing environment would contribute to successful kenneling in all kinds of situations. The SeaWorld Orlando Animal Training team understood through conversation with peers that problems sometimes occurred during travel or on location if the animals refused to perform the kenneling behavior. The otters referenced were not trained to be physically placed in the kennel, so picking them up and placing them in a kennel was not an option. SeaWorld Orlando wanted their otters to be conditioned to enter the kennel on a stimulus cue, but also wanted the option of physically placing them into a kennel (Gwinn, 2011). This method would afford the training team the option of routinely placing their otters in the kennel, at any moment, in any situation.

Valerie Lisa Greene & Kelly Flaherty ClarkSeaWorld Orlando

GUEST INTERACTION WITH ASIAN SMALL CLAWED OTTERS (Aonyx cinerea)

AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH TO TRAINING

Otters have a significant history in SeaWorld’s animal interaction program. Throughout the years the company has progressed to techniques that allow their animal training team to utilize

these aquatic animals for extensive outreach programs. While largely successful, the guest interaction otters prior to 2007 were dependent on the application of primary reinforcement for interactions which presented complications. SeaWorld Orlando sought to capitalize on the success of the past, while implementing new techniques that would address previous challenges. This paper presents a novel approach to

training guest interaction otters which abandons primary reinforcement association with interaction. The new approach has produced two otters that are some of the most successful interaction animals in the company.

Millions of guests are affected by SeaWorld’s animal attractions every year, and its icon Shamu is synonymous with the park’s name all over the world. While community service, outreach, education, and conservational messages have been a part of SeaWorld’s very DNA for more than 40 years, for obvious reasons, the park cannot bring Shamu along on these excursions. Over the years SeaWorld has developed a

Photo Credit: Todd Coffman, SeaWorld Orlando


Boris and Natasha

On 10 April 2007, Boris and Natasha (1.1) were born in Orlando, Florida. On 18 July 2007 they were fully weaned, passed a routine physical, and were transferred to the Animal Training department. From the moment they arrived at the facility, trainers spent as much time with them as possible. Interaction first took place in the environment of their home enclosure, and about a week later progressed to other environments. Boris and Natasha were picked up, touched, and manipulated consistently. Hesitation during picking the otters up might offer the opportunity to emit and rehearse undesirable behavior, so when picking the otters up it was done with intent, commitment, purpose, and without precursor. The animal training team did not want to allow for any history around escape, squirming, or other pick-up avoidance behaviors. The number of interactions and time of day were kept variable and primary reinforcement was never associated with being picked up, being touched, or being played with. The length of interactions were variable ranging from just minutes to more than an hour. Though variability was influential, the goal was as much interaction as possible and frequently trainers entered the habitat to simply sit with the otters.

Our previous history with otters allowed us to anticipate that Boris and Natasha would likely bite, however due to their young age, bites were easily tolerated by trainers. If nipping or biting occurred while being picked up, we waited for cessation and for a calm response before changing position or putting them back on the ground. Initially, Boris and Natasha bit when we picked them up, but after only a few seconds the otters emitted a learned response during which they exhibited calm behavior with relaxed posture.

Research shows that when animals have the opportunity to rehearse aggression they will do so more often (Johnson, 1972). Early in the conditioning process, the trainers learned that the kits were more prone to biting in their home environment. If a bite occurred in their home enclosure, trainers exited the environment. Trainer interaction was taken away, which based on their behavior, we could assume had become quite reinforcing. The assumption was validated; reinforcement history had indeed been established, and SeaWorld noted that removing the trainer interaction proved effective; there was a decrease in biting.

Basic operant conditioning principles have shown that by reinforcing successive approximations, the final response is gradually achieved. Responses increasingly similar to the final goal are reinforced, and they increase; responses dissimilar to the final goal are not reinforced, and they extinguish (Kazdin, 2001). As the exposure to interaction outside their home enclosure increased, rehearsal of desired behavior contributed to a decrease in nipping or biting in their home. Duration of the pickups was slowly and methodically increased, and eventually trainers began taking Boris and Natasha out of their home environments all together. They started with places very close by, and then progressed to physically placing them in the kennel and going to other areas further away.

After only a few days it was noted that Boris and Natasha not only responded well to trainers’ touch and physical manipulations, but showed behavioral tendency to solicit them. Within the first two weeks of out-of-enclosure interactions trainers introduced a harness and leash. One trainer held the otter, while a second trainer manipulated its body to properly adjust the harness on the otter. The process was executed quickly and efficiently so as to not allow for any avoidance rehearsal (biting or squirming). Careful pairing of the harness with reinforcing situations quickly established a positive reinforcement history with the otters.

Davis and Balfour (1992) have acknowledged observation of animal personality and has applied noted differences when interpreting behavioral results. It was noted early on that Boris had a natural inclination toward this approach to learning. He would often leap into trainers’ arms, or jump into their laps. Boris seemed predisposed for guest interaction. Natasha on the other hand responded well to learning but had a shorter and limited threshold for being held. She resisted harness adjustment and on several occasions bit her trainer. Because we saw an increase in aggressive response especially when being harnessed, we put a stop to her interaction training. In April 2008, SeaWorld San Antonio was interested in acquiring a female otter for show performance. Natasha was relocated there and is thriving in a show perfomance environment.

Dunder and Mifflin

In October 2007 two Asian small-clawed otters, Dunder and Mifflin (1.1), were born at SeaWorld Orlando. Once weaned, they were separated from their parents, passed a routine physical exam and came to the

Animal Training department in February 2008. Trainers implemented the same methodology as used with

Boris and Natasha, and concluded very early on in the guest interaction training process that like Boris, Dunder had a natural disposition that predisposed him to interaction conditioning. In contrast, Mifflin (the female) did not easily accept either physical contact or being picked up. Based on Natasha’s success in San Antonio, SeaWorld Orlando concentrated its guest interaction efforts on Dunder while Mifflin started learning show behaviors. Following the same successful plan Animal Training had implemented with Boris, Dunder excelled in being picked up, harnessing, and other aspects of interaction training.

Boris and Dunder

Asian small-clawed otters are presumably grouped with the presence of at least one adult female and her offspring (Kruuk, 2006). Grouping two males together is an atypical arrangement, however both Boris and Dunder were thriving, both had a positive reinforcement history, and the benefits of cohabitating ambassador animals justified an introduction in March of 2008. The first acclimations took place with both the otters in their harnesses and leashes in neutral territory. Successive approximations allowed for a positive history, and eventually Boris and

Dunder were kenneling and travelling together.

During their conditioning, Dunder and Boris were brought together to a variety of new environments both inside and outside. (Photo 1.) They were exposed to loud noises, bright lights, cameras, unexpected touches, and more. The variety of environments they gained exposure to reinforced a ‘way of life’ approach to their conditioning. As more and more successful interactions took place, Boris and Dunder trusted their trainer would not expose them to any negative situations. Avoidance behaviors are extinguished when a negative consequence does not occur (Kazdin, 2001), and we noted a decrease in avoidance behaviors to the point of extinction. Established, effective relationships with trainers enabled the otters to trust their safety in any situation regardless of novel stimuli.

Results

Boris and Dunder travel all over the country, and have appeared on national television with celebrities including but not limited to: Jack Hanna, Julie Scardina, Jay Leno, and others. (Photo 2.) Both can be handled by company spokespeople while television personalities, their guests, and members of the public of all ages have enjoyed physical contact. Their appearances at hospital charity, marketing, and educational events are numerous and they help to educate and entertain park guests.

SeaWorld has been among the leaders in training animals to interact with members of the public for over 40 years. Throughout its history, SeaWorld Animal Trainers have used knowledge gained to consistently and continuously adapt their methods in order to produce the most dependable ambassador animals. The method used with these otters represents a highly unique approach rooted in the behavioral and philosophical principles. While the sample size is too small for statistical evaluation, it is interesting that the males in the group were better guest interaction candidates. As the sample size increases, we hopes to assess whether or not gender plays a role in Ambassador Animal selection and training.

The novel approach to otter conditioning with Boris and Dunder produced two of the most amenable animals in the company’s collection while allowing parent rearing. A reinforcement history driven way-of-life approach utilized relationships with the trainers to make guest interaction and novel situations a part of daily activities. This training methodology addressed some of the challenges our interaction otters had faced in the past. Boris and Dunder are conditioned to be either asked to go into the kennel or physically placed in the kennel, experience novel environments, wear a harness with ease, and both can be picked up and handled by team members, company spokespeople, and guests. (Photo 3.) They are willing to accept new situations and interactions of long duration,

as these interactions are not dependent on primary reinforcement. The methodology described represents a significant deviation from previous philosophy. However, this methodology effectively overcame many challenges and has produced the two most docile, easily-handled otters in SeaWorld’s history.

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Alan Gwinn, Michelle Beaver, Todd Coffman, Jodie Tintle, Beth Bonnell, Emma Welch, and the entire Animal Training department at SeaWorld Orlando for their dedication to the animals in their care and the progression of our craft.

References

Allen, D. (2010). Otter (pp. 23-24). London: Reaktion Books Ltd.Beaver, M. (2011). Personal communication. 8 August 2011.Chance, P. (2009). Learning and behavior: Active learning edition (p. 135). California:

Wadsworth.Coffman, T. (2011). Personal communication. 15 August 2011.Davis, H., & Balfour, D. (1992). The inevitable bond: Examining scientist–animal

interactions. New York: Cambridge University Press.Gwinn, A. (2011). Personal communication. 10 June 2011.Hume, J., & Wynne-Edwards, K. (2005). Castration reduces male testosterone, estradiol,

and territorial aggression, but not paternal behavior in biparental dwarf hamsters (Phodopus campbelli). Hormones and Behavior, 48(3), 303-310.

Johnson, R. N. (1972). Aggression in man and animals (pp. 141-142). Philadelphia, PA: W.B. Saunders.

Kazdin, A. (2001). Behavior modification in applied settings (pp. 21-26, 43, 51-52, 56-59). California: Wadsworth.

Kruuk, H. (2006). Otters: Ecology, behaviour and conservation (pp. 20-23, 52, 72-77, 228, 237). Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Meder, A. (1988). Effects of hand-rearing on the behavioral development of infant and juvenile gorillas. Developmental Psychology, 22(4), 357-376.

Photo Credit: Alex Gonzalez SW Orlando

Photo Credit: Todd Coff-man, SeaWorld Orlando


This year’s nominees for office comprise an outstanding group of animal professionals eager to help and willing to provide their

expertise to IMATA’s future. We encourage interested professionals to get involved by supporting various committees as a stepping-stone to serving the organization as a Committee Chair or Director. Each year we have the honor of announcing election results for new members to the Board of Directors. These are volunteer positions providing leadership in accordance to the by-laws and ethics of the IMATA organization. It should be recognized that all nominees who demonstrate the courage to put their name on the ballot are prepared to commit for a three-year term and we thank them for taking that initiative! This year we are proud to welcome our new Directors for 2012 to 2015 as elected by the membership for the following positions:

Directors, (3 year terms)Bill Wolden - President Elect Teri Corbett - Third Vice President Robert Roozendaal - Treasurer

Directors, (2 years remaining in term) Eric Gaglione – President ElectKelly Clark – Second Vice President * *(appointment by president; pending vote from membership)

Jennifer Leach - Secretary

Directors, (1 year remaining in term)Shelley Wood – President Michelle Sousa – 2ND Vice PresidentPatty Schilling – Director at Large

FOR THE 2 0 1 3 – 2 0 1 5 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Professional development that ’s right for you!

Opportunities for career advancement and involvement in serious decision making regarding marine mammal science, animal training, and animal care is a common desire many of us have. Our own institutions can offer some of this career development when opportunities arise or new, supervisory positions open. However, as many of us know, these positions are far fewer than most of us would like and many qualified industry professionals miss the opportunity to involve themselves, and their ideas, in high level decision making. Critical information is lost when valued experience goes unrealized. Animals, young trainers, and even peers benefit from solid leadership. IMATA can fill that gap by enabling your valuable leadership skills to get some exercise. Every year officer positions are open and can be filled by those in the Professional Membership category. This not only benefits IMATA and you, but also gives back to your home institution through your personal career enrichment and development. An excellent return on your time investment! Each officer of IMATA is supported by enthusiastic, nurturing individuals, able to lend a hand at a moment’s notice. The relationships, contacts, and information exchanged are reciprocal. IMATA benefits, your home institution benefits, and more importantly YOU benefit!!

Our Board members are involved in a multitude of fascinating projects. Each project and committee generates a diverse series of tasks, reports, and important decision-making related to policies. These include topics and discussions involving: • Legislation, regulations, and marine mammals standards• Animal learning and training advancements and applications• Medical applications and enrichment• Publications, web site development, information content,

scientific presentations• Awards, recognition of contributions• Budget preparation and administration• Policy making• Conference organization and site selection• Membership administration• Interface with other animal organizations such as AZA and the

Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums

These, and many more are just a few of the topics in which you’ll be directly involved. Being involved on the IMATA board is an education of a lifetime, and an invaluable career goal for many.

Elections for the 2014-2016 Board will be held soon as three critical officer slots become available to you. In this election year, the slots include: President-elect, 3rd Vice President, and Secretary.

Following is a brief description of these positions. As you look at them, think of your own career development. Each position involves skills you will use throughout your career. Why not learn them with us?

President Elect Assists the current President in his duties and is responsible

for assisting in the publication of the Annual Conference Proceedings. Assumes the office of President the following year and serves as the Editorial Director of Soundings, and all other IMATA publications. The president establishes the yearly agenda then serves as Past President and the Chairperson of the Nominations and Elections Committee in the third year. This position does require the candidate to have had prior board or committee experience with IMATA.

Third Vice PresidentThe Third VP sets up the annual conference from beginning

to end starting three years out – from the election of his or her conference site until the final song at the banquet. Planning and organization will be assisted by the Site Selection Committee and the Conference Committee, as well as the Second VP and First VP, to which positions he or she will succeed each year.

SECRETARY The Secretary keeps the minutes of all meetings of the Board

of Directors and the annual meetings of the membership. He/she works closely with the treasurer to process memberships, send out membership information, and keeps membership database records. The Secretary performs direct correspondence with the membership as directed by the board. The position is served for two years as Secretary, with the third year as Director at Large, assisting the newly incoming board member in learning and transferring secretary duties.

No college, university, internship, seminar series, or

supplemental education program can directly involve you in real issues and direct, meaningful leadership involving the marine mammal profession. If you are serious about developing your career, then you recognize that involvement in IMATA is an important component in your professional development.

Should you wish to submit your name, or the name of a fellow member for nomination, please contact the Nominations and Election Committee at:

IMATA1200 South Lake Shore DriveChicago, Illinois 60605USA

Or via email: [email protected] The nominations window will be closed on 1 February 2013.

Professional members eligible to serve on IMATA’s Board of Directors can be found on the IMATA website under the “Member” menu, “Eligible for Nominations”.

Nominations &ElectionsIMATA would like to wish current IMATA

Vice President and former committee chair Mike Pool all the best in his new endeavors as he leaves his post on the IMATA Board and the marine mammal field. After twelve years at SeaWorld San Antonio and several years with IMATA, Mike has decided to pursue interests in another industry.

Mike has been a mainstay at many conferences and took over the monumental task of following in Bill Wolden’s footsteps as the IMATA Honors and Awards committee chair as Bill moved onto the Board. He also helped to fashion and monitor IMATA’s launch into the Facebook realm. He was always willing to help volunteer his time at IMATA conferences at any task that may have been put in front of him in assisting to make the conference great for the membership. We appreciate his work preparing for the 2014 conference in Orlando.

Thanks Mike, you will be missed.

The 3rd Vice President board position vacated by Mike’s departure has been graciously filled by SeaWorld Orlando’s Kelly Flaherty Clark. We thank Kelly for stepping in for what will be a monumental task of taking on this very special conference being held in 2014.

Bill Wolden

Teri Corbett

Robert Roozendaal

Board m emb e r c hang e s f o r 2 0 1 2 - 2 0 1 4

Kelly Clark

Mike Pool

When the Executive Board meets in Hong Kong this December among the first order

of business will be to finalize the election process by officially electing these three candidates to a three-year term of office in which the membership has voted them. Welcome aboard and we look forward to you serving!


It's IMATA's 40th birthday and what better place to celebrate than Hong Kong! IMATA will host its first conference in Asia. This is your chance to meet new friends in our global industry. Colleagues from over 25 countries will be attending the 40th annual IMATA conference in Hong Kong to share experiences, challenges and most importantly, solutions.

Highlights for this year's conference include: presentations on training orcas, whale sharks and Pacific white-sided dolphins; in-situ research on beluga whales; sea turtle rehabilitation; research training with Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins; application of operant conditioning in in-situ situations with marine mammals; sea lion and walrus husbandry; endangered Yangtze river finless porpoises under human care; multi-species and multi-cultural training paradigms and so much more....

If this is your first visit to Asia, you will have time for sightseeing day and night! Hong Kong offers many exciting venues throughout the city to enjoy with friends. Our entertainment committee is in full swing setting out options to explore the

many nooks and crannies of Hong Kong. Additionally, there will be tours to visit the local 'Pink dolphins' and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins of Hong Kong.

Log on to http://hongkong2012.imata.org/ for all your registration, travel and hotel needs. Also, it’s not too late to be a sponsor! The response of our service industries, suppliers and supporters has been overwhelming. A huge thank you goes out to our sponsors for supporting IMATA and making this event happen in Hong Kong. I encourage everyone to send thanks to our sponsors. Together, we can expand the professional services and products that we rely on for our animals' health and care throughout the world, thereby helping everyone achieve our collective missions and goals.

Finally, for those of you staying at home while your colleagues attend this conference in Hong Kong; a big thank you for holding down the fort and enabling your colleagues to travel. This conference is for you too!

2 - 7 December 2012


ASIA REGIONPhilip Wong, Ocean Park – Hong Kong, China

Dalian Laohutan Ocean Park Co., Ltd – Zhongshan District, Dalian of Liaoning Province, CHINA

Zhongshan District, Dalian of Liaoning Province, CHINA

At Dalian Laohutan Ocean Park, the polar bear cub (Ursus maritimus) met park visitors in early May after acclimating to its new home. Environmental enrichment was also introduced to the cub. His mother, Nina, was transported to Tianjin Polar Ocean World on a breeding loan as part of a polar bear conservation program within the Ocean Park group.

A northern fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus), introduced last December, delivered one female pup on 29 July 2012 at Marine Mammal World (MMW). Both the mother and pup are doing well. From June to July, eight South American sea lion pups (Otaria flavescens) were born at MMW. The sea lion breeding program at Ocean Park greatly promotes the development of pinniped conservation.

Farglory Ocean Park – Hualien, TAIWANAt Farglory Ocean Park, a male West African

manatee (Trichechus senegalensis) has been a resident for 7 years. The manatee team has developed a new strategy for feeding enrichment in recent years. In order to motivate the animal to display different foraging behaviors, food was placed in different locations in the exhibit, such as the surface of the water, under the water and at the bottom of the tank. For example, floats and weights were attached to a white rectangular sheet, allowing it to float within the water column. Trainers then cut holes into the sheet where vegetables were placed to enable the animal to forage. The goal of these creative enrichment devices is that the manatee will exhibit more natural feeding behaviors.

Ocean Park – Hong Kong, CHINAPolar Adventure is the final project of Ocean Park’s

master re-development plan and has been opened to guests on 12 July 2012. Arctic marine mammals including spotted seals (Phoca largha), Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus), stellar sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) and variety of sub-Antarctic penguin species such as king penguins (Aptenodytes patagonicus), gentoo penguins (Pygoscelis papua), and southern rockhopper penguins (Eudyptes chrysocome) are now being housed there.

Polar Adventure is the clearest expression of

how the new Ocean Park seamlessly integrates conservation, education and entertainment through immersive designs, presentations and experiential encounters.

AUSTRALIA REGIONRyan Tate, Taronga Zoo – Sydney

Pet Porpoise Pool – Coffs Harbour, NEW SOUTH WALESThe Pet Porpoise Pool has begun a gradual rebrand

to a public trading name of Dolphin Marine Magic. Although the Pet Porpoise Pool is an iconic name with over 50 years of history in Australia, the new name is more in line with the modern industry and more accurately reflects the animals at the park.

Construction has begun on Dolphin Lagoon which will see the old concentre animal interaction area transformed into a tropical, sand bottomed beach with new amenities for guests.

Dolphin Marine Magic has been involved in a high number of animal rescues with staff attending a humpback whale (Megaptera novagliae) stranding; as well as, rehabilitating and releasing several New Zealand fur seals (Artocephalus fosteri) and sea birds in the last several months.

Sea World – Gold Coast, QUEENSLANDAn Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops

truncatus), Ellie, is now 19 months old and is consistently eating 1kg (2.2 lb) of fish a day, while at the same time still nursing from her mother Squeak. Ellie’s training is progressing well and she is now spending more time in the shows. An Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, Sunnie, who is 6 months pregnant, is progressing well.

Sea World’s three female Indian bottlenose dolphin calves (Tursiops truncatus aduncus), all 2 years old, are participating in interactive programs in a guest star role for approx 5-10 mins each, 1-2 times per week.

Two of Sea Lion Theatres’ Australian sea lions (Neophoca cinerea) are in the midst of starring in a movie Nim’s Island 2. Friday, a 17-year-old dolphin that starred in the original film, is taking a back seat and allowing 9-year-old BJ to take the lead role. Both boys are doing exceptionally well.

It has been a busy time for the research and rescue team this season with three New Zealand fur seals and one sub-Antarctic fur seal (Arctocephalus tropicalis) that were stranded, along with two humpback whale entanglements. Animal Care had a successful breeding season with the little blue penguins (Eudyptula minor). Three chicks have hatched so far. On 9 May 2012 the staff had the third and final import of six king and six gentoo penguins from Kelly Tarlton’s in New Zealand. The staff has been working on introducing a bridge and a recall with the gentoos, which is going well.

Sea World has commenced construction on a new seal exhibit, along with the construction of a new dolphin pool, in anticipation of the completion at the end of December 2012.

CANADA REGIONBrian Sheehan, Vancouver Aquarium – Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver Aquarium – Vancouver, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Vancouver Aquarium staff and volunteers are

saddened to announce the passing of beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas), Kavna, on 6 August 2012. Kavna was approximately 46 years old and known to be the oldest beluga whale in any accredited aquarium in North America.

“While our staff and volunteers are saddened at the loss of our beluga whale, Kavna, we’re left with very warm memories of her at the Vancouver Aquarium,” says Clint Wright, Vancouver Aquarium SVP and general manager. “At about 46 years of age, she was at the end of her natural life and will be greatly missed by all, including the 30 million members and visitors who have connected to Canada’s Arctic in a way that would not have been made possible other than through the direct interactions with her at the Aquarium over the past 36 years.”

A necropsy of the beluga whale was conducted by Dr. Stephen Raverty of the Ministry of Agriculture, and assisted by Dr. Martin Haulena and other aquarium staff. Preliminary results of the necropsy indicate that Kavna had lesions most consistent with cancer. There were wide-spread lesions affecting the reproductive tract as well as many other tissues. The treatment and care she had been receiving were focused on treating a reproductive disorder. Further tests will be conducted over the next few months.

CARIBBEAN ISLANDS REGIONAdrian Penny, Atlantis Paradise Island – Paradise Island, Bahamas

Dolphin Explorer – Punta Cana, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

George Rodgers at Dolphin Explorer reports that initial DNA testing of the facilities dolphins purchased from Cuba establish excellent genetic diversity within the group, indicating that the animals represent a genetic mix of resident inshore and more transient intermediate-offshore bottlenose dolphins. This confirms Cuban officials’ study observations that population numbers drop in certain months around the island when many of the animals are believed to mix with dolphins to the north in Bahamian waters, similar to mixes in other populations, such as the Gulf of Mexico. However, the DNA evidence suggests that the mixing of the northern Cuban dolphins is much more variable and widespread than in other areas. Dolphin Explorer will continue to invest in DNA studies, which complement Cuban population research. Rodgers attended the recent IMATA regional meeting in Cuba at which Cuban officials made a presentation on population studies that are the basis for their collection of a limited number of dolphins annually. Cuba’s National Aquarium web site lists both the completed population research undertaken from 2002 to 2010.

EUROPE NORTH CENTRAL REGIONChristiane Thiere, Tiergarten Nuremberg – Nuremberg, Germany

Dolphinarium Nuernberg – Tiergarten Nuernberg, GERMANY

The trainers at Dolphinarium Nuernberg are proud to announce that the false floor build into one of the pools during winter time is completed. The false floor is 12m (39 ft) in diameter and can lift up a group of five dolphins and trainers.

The trainers have been using the false floor for enrichment training and in water interaction in order to make the lifting more comfortable for the animals. The dolphins appear excited at the beginning of a training session when trainers are making preparations to lift the floor.

Dolfinarium Muenster – Harderwijk, NETHERLANDSA lot of changes took place this spring and

summer at Delphinarium Muenster, Germany. Kite, the youngest member of the male bottlenose dolphin group moved to Planete Sauvage, France. The trainers there are happy to say that he has acclimated well. To fill the gap in the animal family, three 1-year-old Californian sea lions, Janne, Giselle and Luise, came from Tiergarten Nuremberg, Germany to Muenster. The three youngsters are developing very well in their new home.

Last, but not least, a change in the management of Delphinarium Muenster took place. After more than 30 years of service, Frank den Herder retired and is followed by Henk Hiddingh and his wife Liliane Close.

Zoo Dortmund – Dortmund, GERMANYOn 26 May 2012 a male South American fur seal

pup was born at the Dortmund Zoo. He is an albino. Unfortunately, his mother died only 8 weeks later. Since that time, animal keepers have been taking care of the little pup. He is developing well and looks really funny with his red-purple eyes and pink flippers. For now, he is not visible to the public. There are 2.2 South American fur seals that cohabitat with him on alternating schedules. In the beginning, one of the males was startled by the albino, but the others were not affected by the animals appearance. The staff named him Rubio which means blond in spanish.

MEXICO REGIONAlejandro G. Mata, Dolphin Discovery – Cancún, Quintana Roo

Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos – Los Cabos, MEXICO

On June 2012, Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos received an Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA) inspection through the regular application protocols from Alexandria on April 2012. The staff would like to say thank you to William Winhall and Jody Westberg for their patience and effort that was involved during the inspection. Los Cabos is the seventh facility in the Dolphin Discovery group that is accredited by AMMPA and the sixth facility in the group to receive IMATA accreditation.

Dolphin Discovery Costa Maya – Mahahual, Quitanta Roo, MEXICO

Hurricane season runs from June to October and can always be a threat for Quintana Roo, Mexico. Hurricane Ernesto arrived to the Costa Maya facility as a category 1 hurricane the first week of August. Due to the proximity of the facility to open water, the animals were evacuated to Puerto Aventuras. All the animals are doing well. Costa Maya will reopen at the end of August 2012 with the bottlenose dolphin collection.

Dolphin Discovery Puerto Aventuras – Puerto Adventuras, Quitanta Roo, MEXICO

The dolphin breeding program in 2009 was extremely successful for Puerto Aventuras. That year, the second generation of bottlenose dolphins was born, thanks to Frida, 9 years old, and Audrey, 10 years old. Their calves Charley and Hidalgo are doing well. In August 2012, both females had calves again, celebrating another generation at Puerto Aventuras and Cozumel.

MIDDLE EAST REGIONTommy Wilken, Zoological Consultancy Worldwide – Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Emirates Park Zoo – Abu Dhabi, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

At Emirates Park Zoo, the South African fur seals (Actrocephalus pussilus) had a busy summer season educating and entertaining the residents of the UAE. Sanga, Swan and Still traveled for a period of 1 month to Abu Dhabi biggest summer festival called Summer in Abu Dhabi Exhibition to perform daily educational shows for a total of close to 100,000 visitors. It was a great success for The NITO Group with visits from several Royal Families of different Emirates to meet and interact with the mammals.

Billy and Molly stayed back at Emirates Park Zoo for daily shows, interaction, and breeding. Medical procedures in the next few weeks will determine if Molly is pregnant.

All animals are now trained for voluntary blood. Also, preparations are being made for the new shows

and programs for the upcoming season. The staff would like to welcome assistant trainer Sandra Oosting to the seal team and The NITO Group family.

PACIFIC ISLANDS REGIONStephanie Vlachos – Waimanalo, Hawaii

Dolphin Quest Hawaii – Waikoloa, HAWAIILiko, an 11-year -old male Atlantic Bottlenose

dolphin, was transported mid-May of this year to the sister facility and bachelor pad at Dolphin Quest Oahu (DQO). The transport was a huge success for Liko and testament to his health and well-being. Liko has found a tight companionship with the other maturing males at DQO including brother Nainoa and father Lono. He is successfully participating in interactive programs with guests and will be partaking in upcoming research opportunities. The staff at Dolphin Quest Hawaii (DQH) misses Liko but the staff is very excited to see how much he’s already flourished being at DQO. The focus at DQH is now preparing for the three anticipated births in the upcoming fall season.

Dolphin Quest Oahu – Honolulu, HAWAIIDolphin Quest Oahu’s (DQO) new shatterproof,

water-safe mirror is the latest addition to the animal enrichment program. Because DQO’s six Atlantic bottlenose dolphins have been exposed to so many different sights, sounds and objects; they quickly played with the mirror. Spectators and encounter program guests are enjoying the animals’ interactions with their reflections. The mirror also creates a great opportunity for DQO to educate people about positive reinforcement training, desensitization training, and research on dolphin self-recognition.

Sea Life Park, Hawaii – Waimanalo, HAWAIIAt the end of June 2012 at Sea Life Park,

Hawaii, Dr. Carmen Colitz and her team, along with staff veterinarian Dr. Bethany Doescher, performed eye surgery on Lambchop, a female Hawaiian monk seal (Monachus schauinslandi). The staff is happy to announce the successful removal of two cataracts, as well as, the speedy recovery of Lambchop who is currently spending time behind-the-scenes. It has been interesting watching Lambchop recover her sight. Thank you Dr. Carmen Colitz for all that you do for the animals at zoos and aquariums around the world.

The Hawaii Ocean Theatre staff has been busy training the California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) and the Humbolt penguins (Speniscus humboldti) to wear costumes for the annual Halloween show. This should be a big hit for the park guests. The sea lions are also being trained to walk around the stadium holding a

Photo Credit: Dolphin Quest Oahu

Dolphin Quest Oahu’s new shatterproof, water-safe mirror is the latest addition to its animal enrichment program.

The following reports were submitted for publication on 31 August 2012

Photo Credit: Zoo Dortmund

An albino South American fur seal pup (Arctocephalus australis) born at the Dortmund Zoo.

Photo Credit: Dolphin Discovery

Alliance inspection at Dolphin Discovery Los Cabos in June 2012.

Photo Credit: Dolphinarium Nuernberg

The new false floor at Dolphinarium Nuernberg.

Farglory Ocean Park

A West African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis) exhibiting more natural feeding behaviors through the use of enrichment devices at Farglory Ocean Park.


trick-or-treat bucket.The staff would like to welcome three new

apprentice trainers to the park, Carla Cutino, Brittni Rice, and Lizzy Sonoda, who were all spring 2012 interns. The park wishes a fond farewell and best of luck to Nicole Enright, Jessica Dempsy, and Shelly Potts. The park would also like to thank the summer interns for all their hard work and welcome the fall interns of 2012.

SOUTH AFRICA REGIONGabby Harris – Durban, South Africa

Sea World at uShaka Marine World – Durban, SOUTH AFRICA

The Mammal and Bird staff took part in the annual Nelson Mandela charity day. The staff collected blankets, leads, collars and pet food to assist underprivileged dog owners in one of the local rural areas. The staff also spent a day teaching pet care skills to the young enthusiastic participants. Also, the seal encounters have begun and is proving to be a popular experience with the public.

The staff is happy to congratulate the following team members on their promotions: Kerry Cahill and Arenea Sleeman to Senior Trainers; Raecine Bates to Trainer 2; Tarryn Abrahams, Johathan Ellerbeck and Bilal Limbada to Trainer 1; Cyril Mdlalose to Assistant Trainer; and Umesalma Wahab has been taken on as an Apprentice Animal Care.

U.S. MIDWEST REGIONStacey Lonski, Indianapolis Zoo – Indianapolis, IN

Como Zoo – St. Paul, MINNISOTAThe staff at the Como Zoo has been very busy

with the addition of animals from Lake Superior Zoo due to the recent flood waters in Duluth, Minnesota. The staff has taken in 0.1 polar bear and 0.2 harbor seals (Phoca vitulina). The animals are settling in to their new surroundings. The staff has recently started introductions between Como Zoo’s 2.0 polar bears and Duluth’s 0.1 polar bear.

St. Louis Zoo – St. Louis, MISSUORIThe Saint Louis Zoo's new Sea Lion Sound brings

visitors nose-to-nose with swimming California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) through an exhibit opening to the public on 30 June 2012. Sea Lion Sound features a walk-through, transparent tunnel into the sea lion habitat, the first in North America, and a landscape inspired by the rugged Pacific Northwest coast.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car Family Sea Lion Landing features a spectacular 10 m (35-foot-long) underwater viewing tunnel, where visitors can see animals swimming around them. This spacious, year-round

outdoor pool and habitat features varying depths of water and rocky outcroppings. At one end of the pool is a shallow beach where animals can go for sun bathing, feeding, and training. The water becomes deeper at the other end of the pool, where visitors find an expansive window to watch the sea lions underwater, another first for the Saint Louis Zoo. A harbor seal is expected to join the sea lions at Sea Lion Landing later this summer.

The Lichtenstein Sea Lion Arena, home to the First Bank Sea Lion Show, features an 811-seat amphitheater, the large Ann Lux Family Stage, a 151,416.5 L (40,000-gallon) see-through pool, a rock bridge extending into the audience and a high diving platform and slide, all designed to show off the sea lions' natural abilities. Audiences will be thrilled by the powerful swimming, flipper walks, balancing acts, and lots of splashing demonstrated by these incredible animals.

“At Sea Lion Sound, visitors will see our sea lions close-up. They will be able to interact directly with these magnificent marine mammals and learn from that contact. We believe this experience will build a new understanding of these highly adaptable, social creatures and the need for their conservation," said Dr. Jeffrey P. Bonner, Dana Brown President and CEO of the Zoo.

U. S. NORTHEAST REGIONBeth Manning – Baltimore, Maryland

Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center – Riverhead, Long Island, NEW YORK

The Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition successfully completed a very hot and busy summer season. The Animal Department opened a new exhibit Creatures of the Night, housing a Hoffman’s Two-toed sloth (Choloepus hoffmanni), two Prehensile-tailed Porcupines (Coendou prehensilis), and approximately 120 Long-tongued nectar bats (Macroglossus minimus). The animals are all doing well adjusting to their new home and the staff is enjoying learning about and taking care of new animals.

The summer California sea lion show called Sergeant Salty and the Pesky Polluter was a success. It was also fun for the staff, volunteers, and interns. The staff would like to thank all the volunteers and interns for all of their help. The show wouldn’t be possible without all of their dedication and cooperation.

The staff underwent a lot of changes also, and would like to bid a sad farewell to trainer Danielle Stango and wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors. Another sad farewell to trainer Anne Haas and best wishes as she heads back to school to pursue another dream. The staff would like to welcome two new Apprentice Trainers, Jenna Mercurio and Meghan Kelly to the team.

Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration –Mystic, CONNETICUT

The Pacific Northwest team at Mystic Aquarium welcomes Buttonwood Park Zoo’s Atlantic harbor seals Blue, Yellow, and Sandy. The BPZ animals have joined Pacific harbor seal Spanky and Steller sea lion, LA, temporarily while their exhibit undergoes repairs. The PNW team thanks summer interns Tierney O'Neal, Kelly Griffin, Emma Fowler, and Corinne Rainey on an amazing job. The staff also congratulates Jessi Smashey, who is joining the team as assistant trainer, and welcome back trainer Ray Molnar.

The Marine Theater team incorporated the two female California sea lions, Sakari and Cali, into the summer show, alongside the veteran males, Coco and

Surfer. The Marine Theater staff would like to thank summer interns Allison Pfiefer, Andy Devereaux, and Cassie Hill.

The Mystic Aquarium Stranding Program is rehabilitating six harbor seal pups received from other facilities in the summer. The team is also caring for two gray seals (Halichoerus grypus). Sea turtle stranding season has included numerous reports for dead loggerheads (Caretta caretta), greens (Chelonia mydas), and leatherbacks (Dermochelys coriacea). A live leatherback was successfully disentangled off the coast of Newport, Rhode Island with the help of the local US Coast Guard station.

The Arctic Coast team had a very successful summer season with public programming. Thanks are due to summer interns Alyssa Deats and Azzara Oston for a job well done. The team would also like to thank seasonal assistant trainer Kathryn Kahover for all of her hard work.

Mystic Aquarium would like to wish Kimberly Cummings best wishes as she has taken a senior trainer position at New England Aquarium.

New York Aquarium – New York, NEW YORKIn the summer, The New York Aquarium celebrated

the birthday of Nuka, a 30-year-old Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens), and welcomed two additions to the collection, Anna, the first black-footed penguin (Speniscus demersus) chick to be born at NYA in over a decade, and Quint, a 1.0 southern sea otter (Enhydra lutris nereis) from the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Sea Otter Research and Conservation program. Quint was the final pup raised by Joy, Monterey's super mom surrogate.

The craziness of the busy summer season was alleviated by three interns, including NYA’s first intern from overseas. They did a great job learning several show scripts throughout the summer, as well as diving all of the pools weekly and assisting staff with training sessions.

Training with the 1.1 leopard sharks (Triakis semifasciata) is advancing quickly, with the sharks targeting, accepting tactile interaction, and interacting in sessions almost every day. The summer interns also helped staff have time to reinvigorate sea turtle training in the main shark exhibit, and the turtles quickly responded to the revived training and are already accepting tactile interaction.

After another successful, and busy, season of sea lion shows and encounters at NYA’s Aquatheater, the staff is excited about the major renovations in the fall.

U.S. NORTHWEST REGIONCinthia Alia-Mitchell – Tualatin, Oregon

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium – Tacoma, WASHINGTON

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium had a 3 day celebration for ET, a male Pacific walrus, who turned 30 years old. ET arrived at PDZA in 1982 as an orphaned calf and has been an iconic figure in the community ever since. ET also became a world-wide star, showing off his many vocalizations on a YouTube video that went viral with over a million hits. The staff continues to celebrate ET and all that he does to be an ambassador for his species.

Oregon Coast Aquarium – Newport, OREGONIn February, the Oregon Coast Aquarium received

a southern sea otter from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Through an online contest he was named Schuster.

Schuster is progressing well with open contact training and is currently learning full body tactile. The established 3.0 sea otters continue to do well in their training.

The staff is very excited to announce the success of cataract removal surgery on 0.2 harbor seals. The surgery was performed by Dr. Carmen Colitz and her team in May. Both animals have regained their sight.

As the summer winds down, the mammal team is anticipating the renovations to the front of the pinniped exhibit. To increase space to house animals off exhibit during the process, two new holding pools have been developed. One pool in particular will be of great use if and when a water program with the animals and guests is instated.

The mammal staff welcomes Noel Sutton and bids farewell to Shannon Westman. Congratulations to the past interns Christina Tweed for her position as a trainer at the Virginia Aquarium and to Brittany Iverson for her position in Singapore. Best of luck to Emily Wolford and Emily Boyd as they move on to new internship adventures and school. Welcome Kelly Larson and Katie Simpson to the fall intern team.

Oregon Zoo – Portland, OREGONThe Oregon Zoo has begun voluntary subcutaneous

fluid training with 1.1 polar bears, 2.0 steller sea lions, 1.1 southern sea otters, 1.1 Amur tigers and 1.1 Amur leopards. All animals are progressing well with their training.

Following the successful blood draw training with 0.1 polar bear Tasul, blood draw training has now

begun with 1.0 polar bear Conrad. He is progressing quickly with the behavior, in part due to a new custom-built polar bear crate with multiple access panels.

The Marine Life department would like to welcome Celess Zinda as the newest full-time staff member.

U.S. SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONShannon Ray, Oklahoma City Zoo – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Houston Zoo – Houston, TEXASThe California sea lion area renovation schedule

was extended to 10 weeks as the scope of the project broadened. The sea lion’s temporary home at HZI’s on-site vet clinic needed some creative adjustments to handle the length of stay and the salt water environment. With the support of multiple departments a 26,498 L (7,000 gallon) above ground pool, decking, shade structure and filtration were installed in record time. Once settled in at their temporary home the challenges of breeding season began to be evident. It was even more interesting with the 4-year-old male going through his first rut. One advantage with the temporary location was its inaccessibility to the public and provided the sea lion staff the freedom to add more variability to the sea lions schedules. As a result, staff was able to maintain all established behaviors and weekly vet visits, learn new behaviors and even had a few tours. The temporary location has been challenging but has produced a creative and dynamic atmosphere that has allowed continual growth for the sea lion department.

Oklahoma City Zoo – Oklahoma City, OKLAHOMAShow season is winding down at the Noble

Aquatic Center at the Oklahoma City Zoo. The summer was jam-packed with sea lion birthdays, but one especially notable was the birthday for the 26-year-old retired show star and guest favorite named Moe. He is enjoying the life of retirement with two harbor seals, Liberty and Leo, as well as some sea lions that come to his exhibit pool to spend free time after shows. The training staff had several challenges to overcome this season with animal procedures and actively breeding sea lions within the show sea lion group. These challenges helped staff to increase creativity with behaviors, animal rotations, and show messaging. Taking a cue from the Olympics, several shows also

had sea lion competitive events and promoted physical fitness while showcasing the California sea lions amazing natural adaptations. This summer also saw the completion of a multi-phase life support update and the addition of a Life Support Supervisor for the marine mammal systems.

SeaWorld San Antonio – San Antonio, TEXASSummer has been busy as usual at SeaWorld

San Antonio. Aquatica debuted to rave reviews and was featured on Travel Channel’s Xtreme Waterparks. The new Stingray Encounter at Aquatica’s Ke-Re-Reef features cownose (Rhinoptera bonasus) and southern stingrays (Dasyatis americana) for guests to learn about while having the opportunity to feed and touch. Roseate spoonbills (Ajaia ajaja), kookaburra’s (Dacelo novaeguineae), scarlett macaws (Ara macao), and blue and gold macaws (Ara ararauna); as well as, other animal ambassadors complete the south seas atmosphere. Next up is the Halloween season, the park is already hiring for ghoulish characters to roam the park and set the tone for another Howl-o-scream. SeaWorld San Antonio looks forward to continued support of IMATA and the zoological community at large.

U.S. SOUTHEAST REGIONSarah Graff, Miami Seaquarium – Miami, Florida

Clearwater Marine Aquarium – Clearwater, FLORIDAClearwater Marine Aquarium's youngest dolphin,

Hope, has just been introduced to another dolphin for the first time since she was 2 months old. As an orphaned neonate still relying predominantly on formula from a bottle, Hope was kept away from any con-specifics due to concerns over displacement and also to closely monitor progress. Once the formula made up about 10% of the diet, it was decided that it was time for introductions to the oldest resident, a female named Panama, estimated to be about 40 years old. So far socialization could not be going better. They behave very much like one would expect mother and calf to behave. It was only a few weeks after the initial introduction that Hope reached another milestone and was weaned off formula completely.

Texas State Aquarium – Corpus Christi, TEXASThe Texas State Aquarium is slowly wrapping up

a very busy summer season. The aquarium recently opened the newest addition, Stingray Lagoon. It is the most interactive exhibit to date. Stingray Lagoon is 37,854 L (10,000 gallons) of seawater and home to over thirty rays representing the southern, Atlantic (Dasyatis sabina), and cownose species. Guests have several opportunities throughout the day to feed the stingrays when they attend the newly added Feed the Rays program, given from a live presentation area.

Photo Credit: uShaka Marine World

A young participant with a canine companion from the annual Nelson Mandela charity day at uShaka Marine World.

Photo Credit: Oregon Zoo

A new custom-built polar bear (Ursus maritimus) crate with multiple access panels at the Oregon Zoo.

Photo Credit: Alaska SeaLife Center

Alaska beluga baby rescue crew.

Photo Credit: Texas State Aquarium

The new interactive sting ray lagoon at the Texas State Aquarium.


The North American river otters (Lontra canadensis) are being trained on retrievals from protected contact to proactively manage items being thrown into the exhibit. The Aquarium would like to welcome new staff members Jay Jensen, Nicole McCormick and Julie Gorman to the team.

The Tulsa Zoo – Tulsa, OKLAHOMAIt has been an exciting few months at the Tulsa

Zoo’s newest exhibit, Helmerich Sea Lion Cove. In December 2012, the Tulsa Zoo welcomed home two resident sea lions, Dorsey and Briney. The grand opening of Helmerich Sea Lion Cove took place 17 March 2012 and both sea lions celebrated their birthdays at the end of May with lots of fanfare. Briney turned 26 years old and Dorsey turned 19 years old. The new Sea Lion Team consists of Kaleigh Jablonski and Tiffany Chernoff. The new sea lion exhibit has many exciting upgrades. It contains approximately 378,541 L (100,000 gallons) of manmade salt water, with a dedicated life support system; a demonstration area, and a 6 m (20 feet-long) underwater viewing window. It also includes built in enrichment, such as a waterfall and an underwater bubbler. Both sea lions are settling in nicely to their new home. Right now, staff is focusing on relationship building with the sea lions and desensitizing the animals to work in all parts of the new exhibit.

The Tulsa Zoo would like to thank everyone who made Helmerich Sea Lion Cove a reality and give a special thank you to the staff at the Oklahoma City Zoo for taking such good care of Dorsey and Briney.

U.S. SOUTHEAST REGIONSarah Graff, Miami Seaquarium – Miami, Florida

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas – New Orleans, LOUISIANA

Audubon Aquatic Center rescued and successfully rehabilitated a 2 ½ year old, male Atlantic bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) named Sassafras. For the first few weeks, he was supported in the water by Audubon staff and volunteers round the clock. He was treated for numerous medical conditions, including severe sunburn. Physical therapy was performed in order to help him swim. It was also later discovered that he has a hearing deficit. Sassafras cannot hear within echolocation range, which became the determining factor to deem him non-releasable. He was permanently placed with IMMS in Gulfport, Missippi.

At Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, Southern sea otters (Enhydra lutris nereis) have been busy learning new behaviors in order to prepare for their annual physicals. Now that Buck and Emma are 15 years old, the training staff will be incorporating new husbandry behaviors that will help the otters into their geriatric years. As usual, both otters enjoy their daily

enrichment and trainers are actively coming up with new ideas to challenge them. The California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) exhibit at the Audubon Zoo sustained some damage during Hurricane Isaac, but animals and staff are all doing well.

Audubon staff would like to welcome Sarah Sayre as the new senior sea lion trainer and Carly Hulse as the new aquarist at the Audubon Aquatic Center.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium – Clearwater, FLORIDAClearwater Marine Aquarium Mammal Department

has welcomed two avian members, Ricky and Lucy. The birds are African great white pelicans (Pelecanus onocrotalus), and although they just moved in, they are no strangers to CMA. Ricky and Lucy starred in the film Dolphin Tale as the pelican that lived on the roof, aptly named Rufus. Now that they have joined the family, Ricky and Lucy are being transferred to a training system based solely on positive reinforcement, with formal cues and criteria for the first time. The staff hopes to build a deeper bond with the animals through positive reinforcement training. Clearwater Marine Aquarium would also like to welcome new Senior Trainers Tiffany Blake and Julianna McCarthy, as well as Associate Trainers, Erin Belleville, Talia Goffinet, and Emily Egan.

Dolphin Connection – Key Largo, FLORIDAAs part of our long term re-branding process,

Dolphin Connection is proud to announce a new Facebook page and a new website. Both sites are designed to provide information, education, and inspiration to students, teachers, visitors and those who simply dream of visiting. The staff would like to give a big thank you to Lunar Cow for all their help with the creation of www.dolphinconnection.com.

The team at Dolphin Connection welcomes Lindsay Sweet who has joined the staff as an Assistant Trainer. Amid a busy summer season, the staff has been honored with a partnership with the Marty Lyons foundation allowing Dolphin Connection to help make seriously ill children’s dreams come true. Lastly, Dolphin Connection looks forward to sponsoring a luncheon and offering complimentary dolphin interactive programs for attendees at this September’s IMATA Regional Workshop, hosted by the Dolphin Research Center.

Dolphin Research Center – Grassy Key, FLORIDADolphin Research Center is excited to announce

the establishment of the College of Marine Mammal Professions (CMMP). Licensed by the state of Florida, the CMMP currently offers an Associate of Science Degree in Marine Mammal Behavior, Care, and Training with the intention of expanding to additional degrees specific to marine mammal professions.

Students in the program will acquire practical knowledge and skills to successfully assess behavior, provide husbandry care, and apply positive training techniques for the well-being and enrichment of marine mammals under human care. Graduates of this program will also be able to implement effective strategies and techniques in educating a wide range of audiences. Students learn to be entertaining, informative, and flexible during presentations with a manner that motivates people toward conservation practices that benefit marine mammals and the environment. Students will gain general career skills preparing them to communicate effectively, apply critical thinking,, and participate in the work environment as positive team players. Graduates will be prepared to seek positions

as experienced trainers at facilities housing marine mammals. Program and application information are available at http://www.dolphins.org/visit_cmmp.php.

Dolphins Plus and Dolphins Cove – Key Largo, FLORIDA

Dolphins Plus and Dolphin Cove would like to welcome Jake Berman, Kate Lawrence, and Melissa Lopes to our Animal Care and Training Team. This quarter, the Animal Care and Training Staff of both Dolphins Plus and Dolphin Cove experienced repeated success in voluntary slide out and restraint behaviors for medical procedures.

Both facilities are fortunate enough to witness the growth and development of our new calves, Isaac, BB, and Tashi. Via a combination of observational learning, shaping and selective bridging techniques, the staff has encouraged the calves’ voluntary interaction with guests in the structured, natural and shallow water encounters. Island Dolphin Care’s latest addition, Tashi, amazes and delights his trainers as he swims through hoops, retrieves objects with mom, and stops for guests to touch him at less than 2 weeks of age!

The summer season for the Animal Care and Training Internship, as well as the Research Internship

was a huge success. Thank you to all of the Animal Care and Research interns for their hard work and dedication to the animals and staff, as each of them were an integral part of our success this summer!

Dolphins Plus bids a fond farewell to Senior Trainer Cassie Snider, Assistant Supervisor Julie McCarthy, and Assistant to Director of Training Sarah Sayre and wishes them well in all future endeavors.

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park – Fort Walton Beach, FLORIDA

Following a successful first summer of interaction programming with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, California sea lions, harbor seals, and southern stingrays, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park continues to focus on the Sea Turtle C.A.R.E. Program (Conserve, Act, Rehabilitate, Educate), by treating and caring for stranded or injured sea turtles found along the Emerald Coast. In July 2012, a 2.2 kg (5 lb) Kemp’s ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) was released back into the Gulf after being treated by the Gulfarium staff for inadvertently swallowing a fisherman’s line. The fisherman was praised for his decision to contact authorities rather than attempt to remove the hook himself or releasing the endangered turtle without treatment.

Additionally, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park would like to congratulate Amanda Barra for her promotion to Senior Trainer and is thrilled to welcome Shannon Yoskoski, Ashley Landwerlen, and Emily Thomas to the marine mammal training staff.Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute’s Marine

Mammal Research and Conservation Program Fort Pierce, FLORIDA

HBOI-MMRC recently completed its 8th annual dolphin health and environmental risk assessment (HERA) in the Indian River Lagoon in June 2012. The goals of the HERA Project are to better identify health threats to dolphins and links to possible environmental stressors. Due to tropical depression Debbie, HBOI’s HERA staff was only on the water for 4 days, instead of the intended 8 days. Of the 25 intended target animals, 18 dolphins were fully examined and safely released. In addition to standard HERA data collection protocols, the team sampled a high-value animal with lobomycosis, utilized a new metagenomics study, deployed 4 satellite tags, field tested a new iPad database application developed by Ocean Embassy, and completed a first-ever television HERA documentary starring Animal Planet’s Jeff Corwin. The Ocean Mysteries episode will air in October 2012.

HBOI-MMRC is a National Marine Fisheries letter of confirmation holder. MMRC staff is on-call 24/7 and authorized to respond, transport, and provide care and assistance to sick, injured or entangled marine mammals. The HBOI-MMRC team includes Founder and Program Manager, Steve McCulloch, Staff Veterinarian, Juli Goldstein, D.V.M., Stranding Coordinator, Steve Burton, Research Technician, Kenny Kroell, and Veterinary Technician, Emily Langille.

Marineland Dolphin Adventure – Marineland, FLORIDA

August marked the end of a year-long research project in which selected Marineland dolphins voluntarily contributed blood samples for a multi-institutional series of investigations. In keeping with the goals of participating in research projects that have conservation-based benefits to wild populations of dolphins, the data from the Marineland dolphins was compared to samples collected from free ranging wild dolphins.

The staff is also pleased to announce the promotion of Kevin Stephens to Supervisor of Animal Training.

Memphis Zoo – Memphis, TENNESSEE

The Memphis Zoo is proud to announce a new addition to the sea lion pool. On 27 June 2012, Callie, a 10- year-old sea lion, gave birth to a female pup named Teva, which is being hand raised, but is healthy and doing well. Currently Teva is being introduced to swimming, and will soon meet the 1.3 sea lions that call Memphis home. After that she will make her appearance on exhibit.

The staff bid farewell and would like to wish Amy Brannigan good luck on her career change. The Memphis Zoo would also like to welcome Jen Conrad to the team.

Miami Seaquarium - Miami, FLORIDAMiami Seaquarium is thrilled to welcome three

new additions to the marine mammal collection. On Mother’s Day, trainers and visitors welcomed a new male Atlantic bottlenose dolphin calf, Azul, to the Top Deck Dolphin Nursery. A 9-year-old California sea lion, Sushi, gave birth to her first pup, Sake, on 24 May 2012. Sake is already mouthing fish and has, so far, been successfully raised by her mother. A few weeks later, on 14 June 2012, California sea lion, Bayou, gave birth to her second pup named Snapper.

Miami Seaquarium’s Animal Care and Veterinary staff are proud to have released West Indian manatees (Trichechus manatus) from the rehabilitation program. Dory and her calf, Nemo, were released on 17 July 2012, in Palm City, Florida. On the same day, Jasmine was also released in Plantation Key, Florida. Nemo and Jasmine suffered boating injuries and were successfully rehabilitated in less than 6 months.

SeaWorld – Orlando, FLORIDAOn 8 June 2012, a West-Indian manatee was

spotted in Sykes Creek near Orlando, Florida. She had severe trauma to her right pectoral flipper which was wrapped tightly with the line of a crab trap. SeaWorld's Animal Rescue team responded and transported the manatee to a recovery pool in the park’s rescue and rehabilitation area. During care, which included

the amputation of the affected flipper, veterinarians discovered the animal was pregnant.

On 18 July 2012, the rescued manatee gave birth to a healthy male calf. Animal care specialists monitored mother and calf activity around the clock. Two weeks after birth, mother and calf were in excellent health and ready to return to the very area from which they were rescued.

Curator of Animal Training Kelly Flaherty Clark had this to say after returning from the release, “As an animal trainer, I’ve been bragging about the work our rescue team does for years and today I experienced it firsthand. Watching mom and calf swim off together rivaled seeing a killer whale take its first breath or watching an affected audience experience the perfect show. It was just amazing…we do great things, and I’m so proud.”

U.S. SOUTHWEST REGIONBrittany Harris, SeaWorld – San Diego, California

Monterey Bay Aquarium – Monterey, CALIFORNIAThe Sea Otter Exhibit family at the Monterey Bay

Aquarium is very sad to announce the loss of Joy, a 14-year-old sea otter. Joy raised a record number of sixteen stranded sea otter pups. Known as the aquarium’s Super Mom, she was humanely euthanized due to deteriorating health. Even though Joy had several medical hindrances throughout the years, she was also known for her spunky and tough attitude. Joy will be greatly missed by public and staff alike.

The Mirage – Las Vegas, NEVADASummer and the heat were definitely in full swing

at The Mirage Dolphin Habitat. The animal training staff has been busy with a variety of exciting projects and planning future programs. The staff has also been at full capacity for the Trainer for a Day Program which allows guests to shadow the trainers all day while gaining excellent insight about the daily care and training of the habitat’s 7.3 bottlenose dolphin family. A few of the most memorable highlights of the summer include the first birthdays of both male dolphin calves, K2 and MiraMar. A party was thrown for each of the calves with large birthday cards placed around the habitat for guests to sign throughout the day, a Jell-O cake and new birthday beach balls. Both calves are eating extremely well and continuously learning a variety of new behaviors from their trainers. Other highlights include visits by Wayne Brady, Bill Engvall, Brooke Burke, Thomas “Hitman” Hearns, Sugar Ray Leonard, and the Kardashians.

In addition, the staff would like to wish interns Denise Souffrant and Dani Meeks a fond farewell and great thanks for all the hard work they both have contributed throughout the year. The habitat also would like to welcome incoming interns Danielle McMullen and Ty Stoll to The Mirage Dolphin Habitat family.

REGIONAL REPORTS is compiled by Martha Hill

Photo Credit: Dolphins Plus

Tashi and mom playing with hoop at Dolphins Plus.

Photo Credit: Memphis Zoo

Teva, a hand reared 1-month-old California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) pup at the Memphis Zoo.

Photo Credit: Tulsa Zoo

Helmerich California sea lion team at the Tulsa Zoo.

Photo Credit: Miami Seaquarium

Top Deck Dolphins and trainers enjoy an underwater enrichment session at Miami Seaquarium.

Photo Credit: Seaworld

West-Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus) and calf released after rehabilitation from Seaworld Orlando.


Here’s some input from SeaWorld Orlando’s Animal Training team. Stationing is critical to show performance, new learning, and animal and trainer safety, and so it ought to have a very high frequency of reinforcement. We call this behavior a “stay” in our facility and it applies to all of the animals we train. When well trained and maintained, the threshold is such that an animal will “stay” while a trainer completely leaves the environment and returns up to minutes later, even in a show environment. Stationing is a behavior, however, that is very easily and quickly negatively affected by a lack of reinforcement. Without a more detailed description of the situation, and without more knowledge around how these animals are reinforced for stationing during shows or sessions, our best guess suspects a show discrimination issue that is more pronounced due to ratio strain.

Probably one of the most difficult things for us to maintain in our trainers is to keep reinforcement application balanced in shows and sessions. We can’t help but lean toward allowing show timing, pacing, and audience reaction to dictate how, when and where we reinforce animal behavior during those interactions. The fewer constraints a session brings allows for a whole host of variable applications of reinforcement. So, our first and foremost suggestion is to identify the differences in frequency and variability of reinforcement application in a session and a show. A video of each will probably identify those differences quickly. We need to challenge ourselves to be as engaging with our animals in a show as we are in a session.

Here’s some more direct feedback that addresses how we would approach a stationing problem. First of all, identify the behavior you are looking to increase the frequency of; in this case, increased duration of stationing without continued trainer stimulus. Then, identify points of predictable reinforcement or lack thereof in show performance. Next, pull some of the primary reinforcement you are using during sessions and make a point to reinforce stationing early and often during the show regardless of the affect doing so has on the show. Finally, be variable. Move the animal away from the station often for nominal reinforcement, and heavily reinforce increased duration at station with food, a touch, a nod, a toy, ice, or the opportunity to move to another area and station there.

Animal Training TeamSeaWorld Orlando

Stationing is like any other behavior; you must use successive approximations and build up to how long an animal can hold station and how long they can go without fish or attention. By pushing an animal into immediately holding during 20-30 minute shows, the animal is inevitably going to become impatient. If possible, the sea lion should be gradually introduced to stationing without being in the actual show until they are ready to hold long enough to introduce the microphone, visitors, and other aspects on stage. For facilities that are not designed to take animals off exhibit during shows, giving attention and reinforcement more often can also help.

At Audubon Zoo, once our animals have gone through these basic foundations, we have found that the key to encouraging our animals to be more patient is variability. Without knowing what is going to happen next, we find the animals are more likely to behave in between behaviors. They don't know whether it will be two seconds or two minutes before they are given another sD. At Audubon Zoo, we try to do more than just vary length between behaviors.

Currently, Audubon Zoo houses 0.3 California sea lions (Zalophus californianus). The trainers have found that the sea lions participate more consistently if we treat our shows the same as any other session- with variety. To facilitate this, we choose not to have a script but rather demonstration topics. Our topics usually include conservation, the difference between seals and sea lions, how we train, and adaptations. Having the ability to change the order of the topics we discuss, also allows us to change the order of behaviors we use to demonstrate what we are talking about. For example, when we talk about sea lions' front flippers, we can ask for a flipper present, salute, wave, porpoise, ball jump, etc. For each show, we do something different to keep the animal's attention. Because there is no exact script, visitors do not notice if an animal refuses a behavior. We simply LRS and move on, rarely asking for the same behavior a second time. Trainers are able to use a different behavior instead, that will demonstrate the subject that the trainer is talking about. The animals have learned quickly to do everything on the first try because we are not usually going to ask for it again.

Another aspect of variability that we incorporate is which sea lions are in the show and for what part of the show. Usually it works well to use two sea lions on our main beach, but we can also just use one for the entire show or use all three. Due to the fact that we thrive on variability, it also doesn't faze them to mix up the location. For example, we can bring our sea lions down a path along the side of the theater, bringing the animal closer to the guests. Another option is to have a sea lion station at the exhibit glass with the trainer feeding over the viewing glass. We have

even done window work during the slower season when the crowd can fit at underwater viewing. Besides changing the number of animals and/or location, we also try to change the show schedule as often as possible. All of these options keep our sessions more interesting by maximizing the opportunity for variety.

With all of these changes day to day, we have improved sea lion behavior immensely. They never know what is going to happen next and are therefore much more patient. Even so, there are other things we can constantly think about. The main question that pops into our minds when the sea lions start to get impatient is “What is different between shows and all other training sessions?” The best way to notice differences is to have someone record your shows and then watch it back with a second person. People are usually surprised at what they find out. The following are some things to keep in mind. Is there a difference in the amount of attention you give the animal during a show? Is patience rewarded in between other behaviors as often as it is during a normal training session? Is there a difference in feeding schedules during the show or are you feeding less often to make the reinforcement last longer? Is there a difference in your reaction to incorrect behavior, i.e. are you giving a proper LRS?

To give a proper LRS you must give a neutral response. This can be awkward during a show, however, at Audubon Zoo, we have found that as long as we do not extend the 2-3 second mark and we move on talking like nothing happened, the visitors do not even notice. In addition, by giving proper LRS's during shows, our animals very rarely need them since their behavior improves overall.

By treating our shows with as much variability as any other session, we not only enrich our sea lions' lives but we introduce more variety into our job as trainers and enhance the guest experience.

Sea Lion DepartmentAudubon Zoo

At our facility one of the most reinforced behaviors is stationing. We have complex water work routines that sometimes require one trainer to be in control of multiple animals. When this happens, we use stationing often and it’s important that the animal understands that it’s ok to remain at station while other animals come and go. We always try to use the same criteria whether in shows or in normal training sessions and this certainly applies to stationing as well. We practice good stationing in all types of training sessions, but no matter what session we’re doing, stationing is always the most reinforced behavior. We also find that keeping our sessions as variable as possible facilitate good behavior throughout all of our different training sessions. If we ever notice that the stationing behavior is breaking down for one reason or another, we have found that stationing an animal in front of a bucket works well. This allows for more immediacy of reinforcement throughout the stationing behavior. However, we do not always have to use a bucket. Using other secondary reinforces can have a remarkable impact as well. We have a lot of places around the pool where our animals can station during the show so it’s important for trainers to be quick but also maintain appropriate timing and criteria. We have found that if we effectively communicate to the animals that all sessions require the same attention and criteria, then stationing like any other behavior is maintained strongly as well.

Angelo HenriquesTraining CuratorZoomarine Italy

When I asked this question to some of my fellow trainers it sparked a lot of different views and opinions on what could be done or used during shows to effectively capture and hold an animal’s attention. There are a number of different situations where some variables and training methods would be more effective than others based on which species and social dynamic you're working with. This is a really great question and it’s easy to see how a number of facilities would encounter a situation like this. The only issue in answering this question is that since every facility has a different social dynamic with their animals and different components to their shows, there isn't going to be one answer that works for all the possible variables.

The primary thing to consider when approaching a problem like this is trying to understand the social dynamics that are occurring within your group of animals; in this situation the most important being the compatibility of paired or grouped animals and dominance. Some variables to consider are what species you're working with, how many animals are in the show at any given moment, the sex of the animals and whether or not love is in the air, the food amounts that are being fed before, during, and after shows, and finally how many trainers and animals are interacting during the show. Even though there are many different variables that need to be accounted for, if you know and understand the precursors leading into your problem you can find a solution that works for your situation. The issue with easily distracted or impatient animals can be solved by implementing simple but constant changes into your routine. The key to being successful here is never allowing yourself to become predictable and trying to always stay one step ahead. It is important to know each of your animals’ individual needs and habits because everything you do or don't do determines how they'll react with each other or you during shows. This includes the type of reinforcement used during shows, the different food amounts you make available to them, and even your own personal performance in the show.

Predictability in a show could be a large portion of the problem when it’s obvious that the same is not occurring outside of shows. This can be remedied by mixing up various components of your show like the order of behaviors and when or where reinforcement is given. Another thing you could try is reducing the time given to the easily distracted or impatient animals between behaviors. Start with shorter segments where the animal needs to be patient and focused on you and then heavily reinforce them when they show good focus during these sessions. You can also increase the primary reinforcement given during shows when the animal is focused and use more secondary reinforcement outside of shows when the patience and attention of the animals isn't an issue. If this is already being done then you could switch it up by doing the opposite and see if this helps catch your animal’s attention. If you can become more unpredictable and continue to reinforce an animal being focused and patient then you should have fewer challenges keeping them engaged at station during shows.

Hugo SantanaMarineland of Canada

At the National Aquarium we have eight dolphins that do between three and four shows a day. Show/session discrimination is an issue that comes up now and again. In looking over your question we thought of three things to consider: reinforcement, distractions, and trainer actions.

Reinforcement: In general, sessions are typically shorter and require less energy from an animal than a show. Try setting aside more food to use in a show scenario to help combat ratio strain. Also, shows are more

ANSWER 1 ANSWER 2

ANSWER 3

ANSWER 4

ANSWER 5

Q U E S T I O N : We seem to have challenges keeping our animals engaged at station during shows. They seem to

get easily distracted or impatient, which is not a problem outside of shows. Does anyone have suggestions about how to remedy this?


The care and handling of bottlenose dolphins has evolved continuously over the last two decades. Advances in husbandry behaviors have been embraced in the management and handling of neonate Tursiops truncatus. At Dolphin Quest, these advances allowed for the establishment of benchmarks for the care and handling of neonate bottlenose dolphins.

The historical approach to handling neonate bottlenose dolphins has been more reactive in nature. All observations were hands-off, and we physically intervened only if something seemed abnormal. The drawback of the historical approach is that baseline data and samples from healthy dolphin calves had not been collected. Samples were only collected from animals that required assessment and/or treatment. Therefore, we have used baseline data from dolphin adults to determine diagnoses and treatments, which may in fact not be accurate for calves. In addition, with this approach, we are limited in our comprehensive animal care practices because of our lack of knowledge about what can and cannot be done. Trainers everywhere have made progress in expanding our views on what both these animals and ourselves are capable of, and we still have room to grow. This conservative approach, while successful, prevents us from advancing animal care; so new approaches are vital to further develop care and handling techniques.

Establishing a paradigm shift to a more proactive approach by both collecting baseline data and samples from healthy dolphin calves through a robust neonate management plan will help us reap more benefits over time. By embracing this proactive approach, Dolphin Quest (DQ) has collected data through observation and hands-on approaches and set behavioral goals to establish benchmarks for healthy neonates. We use these benchmarks to guide neonate rearing from a proactive standpoint. Our proactive solution involves both medical management and behavioral management.

To establish morphometric and hematologic benchmarks, we start with collecting accurate weights on dam and calf to monitor weight gain and collect blood to begin to track norms. This must be done safely and accurately. At DQ, we established Project Newborn in 2003. Our vision was to handle healthy dolphin calves in a calm and controlled manner so we could collect accurate baseline data and samples. First, we conditioned calm collections with pregnant dams and then progress to newborns. The initial process includes calf-safe crowding panels that we make to fit our natural environment. We employ SCUBA divers and multiple personnel to handle them. We desensitize the dams and calves to the Project Newborn equipment. Over time, we approximate the reduction of necessary equipment and personnel. We repeat training monthly with dam and calf post-partum. To date, we have collected morphometric data and hematologic values from 17 healthy calves of various ages.

The morphometric and hematologic values collected now serve as our calf baseline data. Overall, we have now established the norms for calf age group and for each individual calf. This then allows us to clearly identify when a calf is trending outside of the norm. Project Newborn has given us a strong database, and the ability to raise healthy neonates with great results!

HEALTHy NEONATE BENcHmArkSThere are four key benchmarks both medically and behaviorally for

healthy neonates that serve as indicators of how the calf is doing.

Medical BenchMark 1: daM nutrition

A dam’s dietary intake is a key component for calf growth and development. At DQ, we provide an open-ended diet in hopes that their caloric intakes will double post-partum. This diet consists of higher calorie options like Alaskan herring (Clupea pallasii), Pacific saury (Cololabis saira), or Pacific sardines (Sardinops sagax). (Figure 1.)

Medical BenchMark 2: nursing

The first confirmed nursing event (Figure 2) is defined as the amount of time it takes a calf to begin nursing post-partum. We have seen first confirmed nursing anywhere from three to eight hours following the birth of

&Notices AnnouncementsAALSO 2013 SYMPOSIUMThe 19th annual Aquatic Animal Life Support Operators symposium will take place in the San Francisco Bay area in 2013. Continue to visit www.aalso.org as more information becomes available.

ASZK CONFERENCEThe Australasian Society of Zoo Keeping Inc. will be holding its 2013 conference in Auckland, Australia. Visit www.aszk.org.au as updates come available.

EAAM 41ST ANNUAL SYMPOSIUMThe European Association for Aquatic Mammals will be holding its 41st annual symposium 15-18 March 2013. The conference will be hosted by the Nurnberg Zoo in Nurnberg, Germany. Please visit www.eaam.org for more information.

AZA MID-YEAR MEETINGThe American Zoological Association will be holding the mid-year meeting 7-12 April 2013. The event will be hosted by the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston, South Carolina. Updates can be found at www.aza.org.

ABMA CONFERENCEThe Animal Behavior Management Alliance 2013 conference will take place 14-19 April 2013. This event will be hosted by the Toronto Zoo in Toronto, Canada. Visit www.theabma.org for updates.

IAAAM 44TH ANNUAL CONFERENCEThe International Association for Aquatic Animal Medicine conference will take place 21-26 April 2013. The event will be hosted by The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, California. Updates can be found at www.iaaam.org.

ABC ANIMAL TRAINING WORKSHOPLearn the science of animal training while having fun working with dolphins, sea lions and manatees. The 2013 workshops are hosted by Dolphin Discovery Puerto Aventuras, Riveria Maya, Mexico. Basic courses are scheduled for 29 May to 2 June 2013 and 26-30 August 2013. The advanced courses are scheduled for 5-9 June 2013 and 1-5 September 2013. Further information is available at www.abcanimaltraining.com.

ZACC CONFERENCEZoos and Aquariums: Committing to Conservation will hold a conference in Des Moines, Iowa, 8-12 July 2013. The conference will be hosted by the Blank Park Zoo. Visit www.zaccconference.com for more information.

ABS ANNUAL CONFERENCEThe 50th annual conference for the Animal Behavior Society will be held in Boulder, Colorado during the dates of 28 July to 1 August 2013. Continue to visit http://animalbehaviorsociety.org for information.

ICEE CONFERENCEThe 11th International Conference on Environmental Enrichment will take place 4-8 August 2013. This event will be hosted by the National Research Foundation and National Zoological Gardens in Skukuza Camp, Kruger National Park, South Africa. Visit www.enrichment.org for more information.

AZA ANNUAL CONFERENCEThe American Zoological Association annual conference is being held 7-12 September 2013 in Kansas City, Missouri. The event will be hosted by the Kansas City Zoo. Please visit ww.aza.org for updates.

AAZK NATIONAL CONFERENCEThe American Association of Zoo Keepers conference will take place in Asheboro, North Carolina, 22-26 September 2013. Continue to visit http://aazk.org for information.

EAZA ANNUAL CONFERENCEThe European Association of Zoos and Aquaria will hold the 2013 conference in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, on 24-28 September 2013. Updates can be found at www.eaza.net.WAZA ANNUAL CONFERENCEThe World Association of Zoos and Aquariums annual conference will be hosted by Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Orlando, Florida, on 13-17 October 2013. Continue to visit www.waza.org for information.

PHOTOS NEEDEDAll IMATA members are invited to submit photographs for use in Soundings magazine. High quality images at 300dpi are preferred. Please identify the photographer for credit and mail your photos to “IMATA Photo Archivist” as well as “Soundings Chief Editor” at the IMATA Central Office, [email protected].

IMATA LIBRARYAre you looking for an article from a past conference or an old issue of Soundings? IMATA’s library is available online to Associate, Active, and Professional members! Go to imata.org and click Publications. Our searchable index is also found there.

CHANGING ADDRESSES, JOB TITLES, OR EMAIL?Keep your information current on IMATA’s website. You have the ability to update your information. It’s as easy as 1, 2, and 3.

1. Log onto the member’s section of the IMATA website with your username and password.

2. Click on edit profile and update your current information.

3. After updating your information, click on submit at the bottom of the page and recheck the information you just entered.

That’s all you have to do. Your changes are immediately entered into the website. If you have any problems, click on feedback, and write your questions in the comment section.

WEBSITE Visit us online at www.imata.org.

NOTICES & ANNOUNCEMENTS is compiled by Haley Merritt.

predictable and structured than sessions, causing variability to become even more important. Adding in more secondary reinforcement or even changing the schedule of reinforcement you are using could be beneficial. Remember that stationing itself is a behavior. While you want to make sure to keep show behaviors strong, focus on shifting reinforcement to good calm attention at station.

Distractions: Take a look at some of the extra stimuli that are present during shows that may not be present in sessions (lights, music, videos, props, etc). It may help to desensitize your animals to these environmental changes by including one or more of these extra stimuli in sessions.

Another potential distraction could be social dynamics. Shows require the animals to be together/apart for longer periods of time. Is there a way to break up your show into shorter segments? Breaking from the animals during a longer video/audience participation segment would allow them to interact for short periods of time.

Trainer Actions: In sessions, we usually have most of our attention and eye contact on the animal in front of us. However, in a show scenario our attention has to be divided between showmanship, other trainers, other animals, etc. Remember that animals get a lot of information from body language. Clapping or paying off a behavior can become a cue to an animal that no reinforcement will be coming at that moment. By making an effort to keep eye contact during these times you can communicate to the animal that you are still working with them.

We hope these suggestions bring you success!

TRAINER’S FORUM is compiled by Robert Roozendaal

cArE AND HANDLINGOF NEONATE BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS(Tursiops truncatus); A CLINICAL AND BEHAVIORAL APPROACH

Lauren Prutow McKenna1 & Michelle E. Campbell2

1Dolphin Quest Hawaii2Quest Global Management

Figure 1: Examples of nursing events and key parameters used to monitor nursing. This table represents one individual neonate on day three.

Figure 2: Graph shows first confirmed nursing of calves for four individual dams over years 1994 through 1997.


BEHAvIOrAL mANAGEmENT

At DQ, behavioral approaches related to advancing the care and handling of neonate bottlenose dolphins within their first few months of life are vital to neonate health. These include physically handling newborns, putting calves on an accelerated pathway toward eating fish, gating, stationing, and participating in programs with guests.

Behavioral BenchMark 1: accliMation

Once dam and calf are showing signs of meeting our initial acclimation milestone, we begin to focus on actively managing them behaviorally. The events we look for to meet the acclimation milestone are: successful placenta delivery, dam and calf bond, successful nursing, dam and trainer interaction, and dam dietary intake. We normally see these within 48 hours after birth. We begin to handle the calf once it meets the acclimation milestone. DQ staff starts the dam and calf collection process by reinforcing a consistent calm response. The collection conditioning we do

the calf. It is important to distinguish attempts to nurse versus a successful latch-on, which is evident by proper calf body positioning, milk expulsion at times, and a slight open mouth connection. Should nursing not occur by the eighth hour, then a proactive approach may be necessary and should be discussed, for example, collecting the calf and supplementing with formula.

Once successful nursing is confirmed, we begin to monitor nursing over time. Collecting accurate, real-time data is crucial. DQ staff monitors nursing in 12-hour blocks (6am to 6pm represents daytime). The key parameters we use to monitor nursing are: total nursing seconds per hour, average nurse duration, and the number of nursing bouts per hour. We rely mostly on total nursing seconds per hour as the main indicator of success. (Figure 3.)

DQ staff has found that nursing performance changes with age. Optimal nursing time and ranges can be determined based on the calf’s age. For example, a calf that nurses 80 seconds per hour on Day 1 is on

the right track. However, a calf that is nursing 80 seconds per hour on Day 9 is a red flag. While it’s natural to think the longer the nursing time the better, 80 seconds does not fall within our optimal range for nursing performance on Day 9 (see Figure 4). This could indicate any number of things; one being that the calf is having trouble latching on.

Medical BenchMark 3: calf Weight gain

Once we know our calf is nursing, the next milestone is monitoring proper weight gain. Safety remains a priority for the calf. One of the first concerns for weighing a calf is removing the individual from the water environment. This can be very risky as their medical parameters change quickly in these situations. Morphometric measurements (girth and length) collected with a tape measure are reliable and relatively easy to obtain (Figure 5). A calculated weight is then determined with the use of a large game fish equation (length in inches x (girth squared)/800) to determine the

value (Fish Weight Formula, 2012). (Figure 6.) From our experiences, the calculated weight and the scale weight are nearly equivalent (Figure 6). Therefore, handling a calf out of the water for a scale weight due to its risk may only be necessary in a medical management situation to get a confirmed weight.

DQ’s standard neonatal girth and length measurements are found in Figures 7 and 8. A standard neonatal weight gain averages about 227 grams a day (0.5 lb/day). (Figure 6, 9.) If we see a calf that is exhibiting an inadequate weight gain, we will begin intervention management

Figure 5: Handling calf for morphometrics

Figure 7: Graph depicts age of calf versus length measurement. Imperial data is available through the authors.

Figure 8: Graph depicts age of calf versus girth measurement. Imperial data is available through the authors.

Figure 9: (Metric) Neonate actual metric weight gain in first year. Imperial data is available through the authors.

Figure 4: Tursiops neonate nursing performance in sec/hr during the first ten days after birth (n=8). Shortest, longest, and average nursing times are noted.

such as formula supplementation. A visual indicator of inadequate weight gain includes the presence of concavity in the fat pad behind the skull (referred to as “peanut head”). (Figure 10.)

Medical BenchMark 4: Mottling

We look for a calf to undergo what we refer to as the mottling process, a condition of spotting with patches of grey color. This begins around Day 4 and ends around Day 12. Figure 11 shows the mottling process, which is the normal progression of skin development in neonates. Here too, one can see how a calf progresses through various color and skin changes over a ten-day period. Once again, a calf not hitting this milestone could be an indicator for concern.

Figure 10: A calf exhibiting an inadequate weight gain on day 14 (at the start of intervention management).

Figure 11: Normal progression of skin development in neonates (mottling).

Neonate Metric Weight Gain (<60 days)

Calf Age (days)

Girth (cm)

Length (cm)

Calc. Wt. (kg)

Scale Wt. (kg)

Gain/day (kg)

Bermudiana 15 68.6 24.5

Bermudiana 46 77.5 31.7 0.24

Nea 18 76.2 28.1

Nea 55 83.8 36.3 0.22

Halia 20 71.9 121.9 21.6 21.5

Halia 37 74.9 124.9 24.6 24.6 0.20

Hua 20 69.8 114.3 19

Hua 33 72.4 118.1 21.4 0.18

Luna 29 83.8 29

*Formula for calculating weight: [length (in.) x girth (in.)2]/800, the final figure is then converted to cm.

Figure 6: (Metric): Table of calf morphometrics under 60 days old. Imperial data is available through the authors.

CONFIRMED NURSING

Date 3.26.08 6:00 7:00 8:00 9:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 Avg.

Total Nursing Sec/Hr

0.0 0.0 35.0 126.0 49.0 69.0 66.0 100.0 62.0 34.0 91.0 77.0 59.1

Avg. Nurse Duration

0.0 0.0 2.9 4.5 4.5 5.3 6.0 4.5 3.1 3.8 5.1 3.7 3.6

# Nurse Bouts/Hr 0.0 0.0 12.0 28.0 11.0 13.0 11.0 22.0 20.0 9.0 18.0 21.0 13.8

Figure 3: Graph depicts daily fish consumption of four dams during first week following parturition. Imperial data is available through the authors.


prior to, and during, birth with the dam is what allows us to handle our calves so successfully post-parturition. To date, we have actively handled all 17 of our dam and calf pairs since 2003, which has demonstrably reduced trainer and animal anxiety throughout the entire birthing process. (Figures 12, 13, 14.)

Behavioral BenchMark 2: dietary intake strategies

Our feeding strategies change to accommodate the swimming patterns

of the individual dam and calf. We don’t expect the dam to stop and station initially, so we start by tossing fish in front of the dam as she approaches. This has allowed us to maximize her intake as this process is done on a 24-hour basis to increase the number of sessions she is offered food. We tend to do this for about 30 days post-parturition unless the dam is consistently maintaining high diet intakes in our operational day. (Figure 15.)

Behavioral BenchMark

3: gating strategies

Our behavioral expectation for gating is having the pair gate

by Day 3. We do this before signs of calf independence to allow the dam to facilitate gate training through observational learning. We first build a successful gating history with our dams prior to birth. We then pull a gate completely out of its track and allow the dam and calf to explore an open-gate environment. We reinforce successful gate exploration at that point. Once they seem comfortable with this process, we add a gating stimulus before asking the pair to gate.

Behavioral BenchMark 4: social ManageMent

We set up an introduction plan for all conspecifics in the environment based on risk versus benefit. This, for instance, would be a timeline laid out showing what order the other individuals are first introduced, for how long, and at what time of the day. Risks of introducing other animals to the dam calf pair include: calf stabilization interference, social incompatibility, and potential harm to calf. We feel however, that most of the time the benefits outweigh the risks. Some of the benefits include: enrichment for dam, exposure to new stimulus for calf, and team social acclimation. (Figure 16.) Social introductions at DQ may start as early as 48 hours post-parturition. The DQ position is that at this point, a healthy calf has acclimated. Each animal is introduced based on risk versus benefit within the first two weeks of parturition. We ensure these introductions are done at times in the day that allow us to build on positive social interactions and respond if circumstances don’t seem ideal. Initial introductions are just a few minutes in duration and we build upon these sessions over time. Any

unpredictable animal won’t be left with the dam/calf pair overnight until they show signs of complete desensitization.

Behavioral BenchMark 5:

interactive PrograMMing

DQ is an in-water dolphin interactive facility. Taking guests in the water occurs daily. In order to promote a return to operation norm, we reintroduce the dam to guest programming with her calf. We start by observing the dam and calf interaction in shallow water with the guests. We avoid interference between dam and calf by keeping a comfortable distance. We educate our guests on boundaries should the pair approach us and the program trainer is always ready and willing to step in to train if the dam shows interest. Having calves integrated into our everyday norm helps build the foundation for future calf programming. (Figure 17.)

Behavioral BenchMark 6:

individual calf stations

At DQ, we implement an independent calf station within the first

several months post-parturition. We start by training the calf to station next to its dam, with his or her own trainer. We then approximate both the distance and duration away from dam. This allows us to focus on individual calf training, feeding, and development. We incorporate a hand target and target pole training at this time. We begin to work on calf stationing in both our deep water and shallow water lagoon areas as well as along the dockside. During these sessions, the dam is participating in her own training session or even in a program in the same lagoon area. Overall, we look to build the calf’s attention span with the trainer so their learning for training can grow as an individual. (Figures 18.)

SummAry

Establishing a paradigm shift to a more proactive approach of being hands-on and collecting baseline data and samples from healthy dolphin calves will help our field reap more benefits over time. This approach will allow us to continue to advance the science, care, and handling of all our animals and assist them and us in reaching their full potential.

references

Fish Weight Formula. Retrieved 4 June 2012 from http://themarlinclub.com/fishformula.html

Figure 18: Development of calf station and training with and without dam present.

Figure 17: Guest and trainer in water viewing with newborn calf during portion of interactive programming.

Figure 15: Feeding strategy for post-parturition dam and calf, modified to allow dam to continue swimming to manage calf.

Figure 13 (above) & 14 (right):

Trainers integration of established relationship during parturition to assist in relaxed birthing process.

Figure 12: Trainers implementing calm calf collection

RISK BENEFIT

Interfering with calf stabilization Enrichment for dam

Social incompatibility Exposure for calf

Harm to calf Exposure to normal social interactions

Figure 16: Chart outlining potential risk versus benefits for social introductions.


an innovative approach to training guest … · conservation briefs – shelly samm education forum...

Documents