Calgary Zoo makes list of top 10 wildlife conservation success stories

THE CANADIAN PRESS
CALGARY - Its work to preserve the Vancouver Island marmot has landed the Calgary Zoo on a U.S. organization's top-10 list of wildlife conservation stories for 2007.

The accomplishment was the only Canadian one to be recognized by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

"These critters are being threatened by massive habitat destruction in the wild," the association said in its news release.

"Their current wild population is estimated at nearly 50 animals, but thanks to breeding centers devoted to the species, such as the Toronto Zoo, the population is now around 150. Calgary Zoo in Alberta was the first to successfully breed the marmots at their facility, and produced an impressive five litters in 2007."

The association noted the pups will be reintroduced to the wild in Mount Washington, B.C., "where they will undergo pre-release conditioning to improve survivability in the wild."

Dr. Clement Lanthier, president and CEO of the Calgary Zoo, called it "gratifying" to be recognized by the association for the work.

The Calgary Zoo's work with marmots rated No. 9 on the list - No. 1 was the Detroit Zoo's work to preserve Wyoming toads. Other U.S. zoos and aquariums were lauded for their work with Perdido Key beach mice; Atlantic right whales; ruffled lemurs; Kemp's ridley sea turtles; Grevy's zebras; white sharks; butterflies; and bald eagles.

© The Canadian Press, 2007