Shows
50 Shades of PlanningGrey Belt: Policy Guidance and AppealsFor how long Grey Belt remains part of the policy landscape time will tell, but in the here and now it represents very welcome political recognition that the homes the country needs cannot be built without developing land that is currently identified as Green Belt.
The irresistible force, it might be said, has started to shift the immoveable object...
If that dynamic continues it may prompt questions about what the Green Belt should actually be for and, perhaps, a Royal Commission on it’s future, but that is very much for tomorrow.
In the...
2025-06-071h 34
Wild TailsEpisode 19: From SeaWorld to Zoo Logic with Dr Grey StaffordIn this episode of Wild Tails, host Mike Bona welcomes Dr. Grey Stafford — zoologist, animal behavior expert, and host of the Zoo Logic podcast. With decades of experience in zoos and aquariums, Dr. Stafford has been a leading voice in advancing animal welfare and training through science-based methods.
He shares behind-the-scenes stories and professional insights into the world of exotic animal care, the evolution of positive reinforcement training, and the challenges of public perception around zoos and animal programs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about animals, conservation, and how we responsibly care for wildlife un...
2025-05-0132 min
Zoo LogicLooking Back and AheadWith this first episode of Zoo Logic in the New Year, we hand this week's hosting duties over to our number one supporter and spouse of nearly 35 years, Karen Stafford to review key issues from the previous zoological year and the regular host's thoughts on the new podcast year ahead. Animal Care Software
2025-01-0239 min
Zoo LogicBefore You Burn That Bridge or Leave the Animal FieldAs part of Zoo Logic's year-long look at the well-being of animal care professionals, we invited a very special guest with Human Resources expertise across all aspects of the employer-employee spectrum. Karen Stafford is an HR veteran of Fortune 500 corporate and non-profit organizations, as well as, a professor at the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. She's also knowledgeable about the zoo and aquarium space having witnessed more animal training shows, TV appearances and late night feedings of wild animals in her guest bathroom than any spouse of 34 years should have to endure! Karen offers...
2024-12-0557 min
50 Shades of PlanningGrey BeltSam Stafford was in London recently and took the opportunity to catch up with friends of the podcast Catriona Riddell, Shelly Rouse and Nicola Gooch at Soho Radio Studios. One topic, the hot topic of the past few weeks, dominated the conversation.
“Labour pledges housebuilding drive on Grey Belt with ‘golden rules’ to boost public services, affordable homes and improve green spaces”, so announced a press release dated 19 April.
Keir Starmer has today set out five ‘golden rules’ for Grey Belt housebuilding, pledging to deliver affordable homes, boost infrastructure and public services like schools and GPs, and imp...
2024-05-0447 min
The TEC Talk Podcast: Presented by Natural Encounters, Inc.Episode 87: Who Cares, Just Reinforce It Already! (w/ Dr. Grey Stafford, Zoo Logic)Ari and Chris are super excited to be joined by animal trainer, author, and fellow podcaster, Dr. Grey Stafford! We sit down to chat about Grey's early days in the marine mammal world, his long-running (and HIGHLY recommended) podcast, Zoo Logic, the joy of playing host to what we consider the best discussion ever of the always-contentious topic of the LRS, and his passion for the role we can all play in shaping the future of our industry! To listen to all the great episodes of the Zoo Logic podcast, check out the show on Apple Podcasts...
2021-12-091h 19
Zoo-notableZoo-notable #15 (Part 2): Zoomility with Dr. Grey StaffordI had so much fun nerding out on animal behavior with our guest tonight that I'm splitting the Zoo-notable on his amazing book, Zoomility, into 2 parts. Here is part 2 where we continue our talk on how positive reinforcement empowers us and the animals and teaches us to never give up!
Listen to Part 1 here: https://anchor.fm/pj-beaven/episodes/Zoo-notable-15--Zoomility-with-Dr--Grey-Stafford-Part-1-e13gs9c
Learn more about Zoomility, Zoo Logic, and Dr. Grey Stafford's projects here:
Website
Zoo Logic Podcast
Kong Zoo
Check out some of these...
2021-06-2832 min
Zoo LogicFlorida Coral Rescue CenterFor the past several years, scientists have been tracking the stony coral tissue loss disease that is rapidly destroying corals as it spreads across the Florida Reef Tract. To preserve coral species, a consortium of public and private organizations has formed the Florida Coral Rescue Center (FCRC). The FCRC is the newest and largest member of a national network of coral holding facilities coordinated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Jim Kinsler, SeaWorld aquarium curator and FCRC facility manager leads a team of specially trained aquarists to care for, study and hopefully one day, help facilitate successful reproduction...
2021-05-0643 min
Zoo LogicAMZAP: Increasing Minority Representation in ZoosAccording to its website, the newly launched Association of Minority Zoo & Aquarium Professionals (AMZAP) is comprised of professionals currently working in the zoological industry focused on minority representation in the zoo field across all disciplines and at all levels. Its goal is to build a sense of community amongst minorities currently working in the zoo field and to promote animal care and conservation careers as viable options for interested minorities. To achieve these objectives, AMZAP focuses on four core goals: Networking, Outreach, Mentoring, and Professional Development. One of the organization's founding members, Craig Saffoe, curator at the National Zoo, d...
2021-04-2950 min
Zoo LogicHow Do You Teach a Penguin to Swim?Seasoned zookeeper Rickey Kinley began his career as a high school student enrolled in a unique job training program in partnership with the Cincinnati Zoo. As a long time proponent of using operant conditioning as part of any animal management plan, he noticed the penguins in his care spent far less time swimming compared to the mostly aquatic lifestyle of their wild counterparts. Since excessive standing can lead to health issues like bumble-foot in some avian species, Rickey and his team developed a behavioral plan and exhibit changes to increase the time the animals spent being active in the...
2021-04-2247 min
Zoo LogicHow to Succeed a LegendWhat better way to begin season 4 of Zoo Logic than a conversation with seasoned zoo trainer, educator and friend, Jim Nemet. After long careers at SeaWorld and Cleveland's Metroparks Zoo, Jim recently accepted the role of Director of Wildlife for the prestigious Cleveland Museum of Natural History-- a role previously held by a local legend for almost 50 years! How has a career training with positive reinforcement helped Jim manage change for the collection of animals and keepers he now leads as well as for himself? What advice does he have for trainer keepers entering the field today...
2021-04-1558 min
Zoo LogicZoo FitLong time animal care professional PJ Beaven realized she would be unable to ensure the best welfare for the animals in her care if she didn't first prioritize her own mental and physical health and well-being. So using the same positive reinforcement principles of husbandry and training she learned to apply to animals, PJ created Zoo Fit. It's a process and lifestyle designed to "eat clean, live green, and train positive." Plus, we share a personal letter from the family of Jungle Jack Hanna. Animal Care Software Zoo Logic ZOOmility
2021-04-0838 min
Zoo LogicZDR3: Zoo Disaster Response, Rescue, and RecoveryAccording to its website, Zoo Disaster Response, Rescue, and Recovery (ZDR3) provides support to zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries, and other exotic animal businesses before, during, and after significant incidents. ZDR3 director, Julia Wagner, describes how this peer-to-peer support organization came to be as several facilities sent supplies and staff to aid others severely damaged in the wake of natural disasters like recent hurricanes That Sounds Wild: Baby Prairie Dogs Animal Care Software Zoo Logic Zoomility
2021-04-0132 min
Zoo LogicBats Man!For over 30 years, the Lubee Bat Conservancy has worked to preserve and protect bat species around the world. In addition to its conservation work, Lubee supports much-needed scientific research and public education on the importance of bats for insect control, pollination, and seed dispersal. Despite their fascinating behavior and physiology, these remarkable animals are increasingly under threat of extinction from a wide range of causes, not the least of which is the manner in which the more than 1200 known species of bats are maligned in pop culture and media, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Director of the Lubee Bat...
2021-03-2539 min
Zoo LogicOn Thin IceDr. Terrie Williams is a research physiologist with a passion for studying species, particularly large predators, found in some of the most extreme habitats on earth. Her work endeavors to understand the energy requirements these challenging conditions present, as well as, the unique behavioral and physiological adaptations that animals like polar bears, killer whales, and narwhals use to satisfy those demands. In an era of rapid climate change, this data is critical for preserving species already living on the edge. That Sounds Wild: Gray Wolves Animal Care Software Zoo Logic ZOOmility
2021-03-1854 min
Zoo LogicZAA and the Big Cat Safety BillThe executive director of the Zoological Association of America, John Seyjagat, describes the relatively young zoo and aquarium trade organization and its focus on improving animal welfare, inclusivity, and ensuring pubic safety around dangerous animals. Plus, he shares insights into the two current versions of what has become known as the "Big Cat Safety" bills making their way through Congress and why one version is much better than the other. In addition, Rachel Garner returns with a deep dive into the specifics of each bill and what passage of either would mean for the zoological community, the public, and t...
2021-03-1146 min
Zoo LogicHouston, We Have a SolutionConfronted by a largely ignored feral and unwanted pet problem in the major US city of Houston, zoological professional and marine mammal trainer, Heather Crane decided to do something about it. In her spare time, she started Sea Dog Animal Training to help desperate pet owners and rescue organizations rehabilitate some of the most difficult behavioral cases in her community using the very positive reinforcement-based principles she uses with sea lions and other exotic species. During a year in which many zoo professionals found themselves out of work due to the economic impact of COVID-19, Heather's company was also...
2021-03-0450 min
Zoo LogicZoo Logic and FriendsAs Zoo Logic wraps up its third season over the next few weeks, we invited several past guests representing the arts, science and research, and animal law to share their diverse perspectives on the past difficult year and what a new US administration might mean for public display, conservation, and future regulations. One theme to emerge was the narrative of "retiring" animals to sanctuaries and whether sending older animals to such facilities was truly based on the best welfare of animals or simply designed to soothe human feelings. That Sounds Wild: African Cicada. A...
2021-02-2559 min
Zoo LogicLoro Parque: No Retreat, No SurrenderNearly 50 years old, Loro Parque has grown into one of the premier zoological parks in the world and is a major attraction of the Canary Islands. Known for its extensive in situ and ex situ conservation and research of avian species, particularly psittacines, Loro Parque and its foundation have saved some parrot species from extinction. Currently, it participates in over 200 conservation projects across the globe. Loro Parque continues to proudly, proactively, and unapologetically promote the work of its foundation and that of other modern zoological facilities to display, study, conserve, and in some instances, reintroduce endangered species...
2021-02-1840 min
Zoo LogicKong Zoo Enrichment FundraiserKong Zoo is a new platform where animal professionals can realize significant savings for themselves and their animal facilities when purchasing enrichment items. As the name suggests, the company is focused on an underserved segment of the animal training and enrichment world: large zoological (and equine) species. Since its creation about a year ago, the company has introduced new, larger animal products with more styles and sizes under development. Recently, they launched a fundraiser assistance program to help struggling organizations stretch their enrichment budgets. That Sounds Wild: Jaguar. Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park. A...
2021-02-1115 min
Zoo LogicWalrus!Researchers Andreas Fahlman and Alicia Borque Espinosa return to discuss their latest respiratory physiology paper focusing on walrus. Relying on animals living and trained in managed care, the researchers were able to develop the necessary equipment to measure basic respirometry parameters for these semi-aquatic animals. As with all metabolic studies, it was important to work with calm animals desensitized to the presence of non-invasive equipment. Animals trained via operant conditioning to voluntarily participate in data collection by breathing into a mask helps avoid the confounding effects on respiration and metabolism of anxious or restrained subjects. That Sounds...
2021-02-0431 min
Zoo LogicThe Most Famous Guy in America Nobody KnowsFew people working in the entertainment world can point to sea lions, walrus and otters being among their earliest co-stars like comedian Bill Sindelar can. How did growing up in Cleveland working alongside animal trainers and marine mammals in front of live audiences prepare him for a successful life-long career in Hollywood working on popular live competition, theatrical, and talk shows? And, what advice does the number one warm up guy in Los Angeles have to share with today's zoological professionals and those aspiring to be? That Sounds Wild: Crested Guinea Fowl. Cleveland Metropark Zoo
2021-01-2858 min
Zoo LogicLiberty WildlifeFrom its humble beginnings on a one acre horse property 40 years ago rescuing and rehabilitating about 80 birds in its first year, Liberty Wildlife today has a modern medical and educational facility which treated and returned 12k wild, orphaned and/or injured birds last year. Education Coordinator, Laura Hackett describes the rich history of the facility, some of its long term resident ambassadors, and its rescue efforts' above average success rate. Plus, Liberty Wildlife is home to the only federally authorized non-eagle feather repository where Native Americans may request feathers and other legally restricted migratory bird parts for cultural and...
2021-01-2129 min
Zoo LogicFinding the Good in a Year of BadWe are joined by the president and CEO of the Phoenix Zoo, Bert Castro, who is also the current board chair for the largest zoo and aquarium trade association in North America. How has his organization weathered the pandemic and its impact on staff health, attendance, revenues, and importantly, their extensive conservation efforts locally and internationally? What lessons does he think zoos and aquariums and their trade association (AZA) have learned in 2020 that can be carried forward for a more successful 2021? That Sounds Wild: Red Ruff lemurs. Frank Buck Zoo Animal Care Software Zo...
2021-01-1428 min
Zoo LogicPositive Reinforcement Effect on the User and Bottom LineFriends of the Zoo Logic Podcast, animal trainers and authors, Chuck Tompkins and Clicker Training's Ken Ramirez discuss the impact of using positive reinforcement on people. Each describes their own occasionally bumpy journey as young, inexperienced managers learning to tap into the individual motivations of their team members while also avoiding the management style errors of their predecessors. That Sounds Wild: Eurasian Eagle Owl. Cleveland Metroparks zoo. Animal Care Software Zoo Logic Zoomility Whale Done!
2021-01-0740 min
Zoo LogicSave Giraffes NowWildlife biologist and president of the conservation organization, Save Giraffes Now, David O'Connor returns with the real life account of a recent rescue of endangered giraffes stranded on an island in Kenya as lake waters continue to rise. With support of Save Giraffes Now, its international partners, and the local community united in its concern for this group of animals, the team was able to safely and successfully coax two of about a half-dozen Rothschild's giraffes onto a barge which was then towed to a nearby protected conservancy. Depending upon the travel obstacles posed by COVID-19, David and the...
2020-12-3138 min
Zoo LogicA Rare 2020 Success Story: the MS AquariumIt is difficult to launch a new zoological facility and major community resource under the best of times, much less during a global pandemic. That is exactly what the brand new Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport did just a few months ago on the 15th anniversary of hurricane Katrina, the historic storm that leveled homes and businesses throughout much of the gulf coast. President and CEO Kurt Allen describes the building process, the economic revival that has already begun in large part to the aquarium, and the spirit of collaboration that exists among all facilities to lend a hand during t...
2020-12-2450 min
Zoo LogicAloha, Jungle Jack HannaEarlier this year it was announced that former Columbus Zoo Director turned Emmy winning wildlife TV host, Jungle Jack Hanna was retiring from his busy zoological career. Who better then to discuss the life and conservation legacy he and his wife of over 50 years, Suzi, have built, than their eldest daughter, Kathaleen. What was it like growing up in a zoo surrounded by wild animals, a famous dad, and later working with him on camera? Plus, several of Jack's famous and not so famous friends drop in to share a favorite memory and well-wishes for their next adventure. ...
2020-12-171h 14
Zoo LogicA Wild Life and WorldMany people dream of building their own zoo but few individuals ever make that childhood wish a reality. For nearly 40 years, Mickey Ollson has directed the zoological facility he founded known as Wildlife World Zoo. Today that zoo has grown from its original 40 acres and a few hundred animals to well over one hundred acres featuring a Safari Park and Arizona's first public aquarium. In total Wildlife World now houses over 500 species and thousands of individual birds, mammals, reptiles, and fish in what has become one of the largest zoological collections in the western United States. From the lean...
2020-12-101h 16
Zoo LogicBushfires RescueLast year's historic and devastating fires in Australia may have resulted in billions of animals lost, including many listed as threatened or endangered species, across 12 million hectares of habitat. That's roughly equivalent to the area of Spain according to guest, Beau Peberdy, a former zoo professional turned wildlife rescuer involved with several rescue organizations. Beau works with Bushfire Wildlife Rescue Support to help caregivers throughout much of Australia obtain needed medical and basic husbandry supplies to treat injured, orphaned, or burned koalas and macropods in the wake of fires and other natural disasters. That Sounds Wild: Kookaburra
2020-12-0343 min
Zoo LogicDeserted: Ecocide on the Arizona BorderRapid ecological destruction has been underway on the southern border of Arizona along some of the most pristine and inaccessible regions of the Sonoran desert. It isn't being done by poachers, crime syndicates, or undocumented immigrants. It's being done without serious public input, oversight, environmental impact studies, or objection by elected state and federal officials. Over the past 2 years, photographer, John Kurc, has been documenting the work of the Trump administration to build a wall in remote areas, some with 70-90% inclines. Paradoxically, in order to build this barrier, roads must first be blasted into these mountainsides...
2020-11-2631 min
Zoo LogicMarine Mammal Veterinary Scientist Dr. Sam RidgwayThe term pioneer is overused but how else to describe the person contributing to our basic understanding of cetacean health and husbandry, anatomy and physiology, and behavior for the past 60 years? In the early 1960's, Dr. Sam Ridgway became one of the architects of the US Navy's Marine Mammal Program. Trained first as an Air Force veterinarian, Dr Ridgway went on to earn his doctorate and has for decades collaborated with some of the world's most renown marine mammal researchers in the areas of cetacean neuroscience, hearing and echolocation, sleep, deep diving physiology and more. That Sounds...
2020-11-1948 min
Zoo LogicThe Rewards of Positive Training pt 2It's part two of our discussion about modern behavioral training applications to improve animal husbandry and wildlife conservation with friends of Zoo Logic, large animal managers Erin Ivory, Chuck Tompkins and Ted Turner. Using examples from their work with animals in human care and in the wild, the trio downplay the role of rewards like food while stressing the importance of establishing strong relationships with large predatory and prey animals through creative, fun, and unpredictable consequences. That Sounds Wild: tropical Australia. Animal Care Software Zoo Logic ZOOmility
2020-11-1239 min
Zoo LogicThe Rewards of Positive TrainingFriends of Zoo Logic, large animal managers Erin Ivory, Chuck Tompkins and Ted Turner return to discuss success stories from 3 decades or more of positive reinforcement-based training principles utilized with zoological and domestic species. The trio downplay the role of rewards like food while stressing the importance of establishing strong relationships with large predatory and prey animals through creative, fun, and unpredictable consequences. That Sounds Wild: Beaver pup. Animal Care Software Zoo Logic
2020-11-0539 min
Zoo LogicZoos Preserving Endangered Island IguanasThe Fort Worth Zoo has been focused on preserving threatened and endangered iguana species in their native ranges for many years. Recently, they announced the successful hatching of 2 endangered Grand Cayman iguanas as part of a multi-institutional cooperative effort to boost healthy and genetically diverse populations of these animals, both in human care and in restored habitats. Remarkably, fewer than 10 of these individuals remained in the wild 20 years ago. Today, thanks to the work of zoological and conservation organizations there are more than 700. Fort Worth Zoo's conservation biologist and co-chair of the IUCN Iguana Specialist Group, Dr. S...
2020-10-2931 min
Zoo LogicIUCN Plan to Save Small CetaceansAccording to their press release, a new report published in recent weeks by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) calls for a broader, more integrated approach to the conservation of small cetaceans, particularly dolphins and porpoises. Many species and populations that are only found close to human activities are quickly declining due to known but unsolved problems – primarily accidental drowning in fishing gillnets. The report recommends urgent actions for several species and subspecies at risk of extinction, including Atlantic humpback dolphins, Yangtze finless porpoises, Franciscana dolphins, and Indus and Ganges river dolphins, and development of integrated conservation pla...
2020-10-2237 min
Zoo LogicEscape From ExtinctionAmerican Humane's new groundbreaking documentary, Escape from Extinction, narrated by Academy Award winner Helen Mirren, showcases the critical efforts certified zoos and aquariums are undertaking to preserve millions of species on the verge of disappearing forever. As the first pro-zoo-and-aquarium documentary of its kind, the film takes viewers on a dramatic trip around the world and through time to explore the roots of the wholesale disappearance of species in our forests and oceans, described by scientists and journalists as a "Sixth Mass Extinction." Importantly, however, the film also shows people that there is hope as animal experts...
2020-10-1536 min
Zoo LogicThe Frozen ZooThe San Diego Zoo Global's Institute for Conservation Research maintains what is called the frozen zoo. For decades, carefully collected and prepared cell samples from over 1000 species, many of them listed as threatened or endangered and nearing extinction, have been stored almost indefinitely in ultra cold freezers. Recently, the frozen zoo played an instrumental role in the successful cloning of an endangered Przewalski's Horse by providing the genetic material from a long deceased yet underrepresented stallion. SDZG's Dr. Oliver Ryder has spent his career working to preserve the Przewalski's Horse and many other species through scientifically managed b...
2020-10-0839 min
Zoo LogicSuccessful Cloning of an Endangered SpeciesRecently, historic news of the successful birth of an endangered Przewalski's Horse foal conceived through cloning technology was announced. Remarkably, the nuclear material used for the purpose of expanding the genetic diversity of this managed species was from a genetically underrepresented stallion that has been deceased for many years. The stallion's DNA had been preserved at what is colloquially called the Frozen Zoo located at the San Diego Zoo Global's Institute for Conservation Research. Ryan Phelan, co-founder of Revive & Restore and lead scientist Ben Novak discuss the use and future promise of technology to increase biodiversity of vulnerable populations...
2020-10-0137 min
Zoo LogicEnvironmental Journalist Jeremy HanceLong time journalist for the popular environmental news website Mongabay.com, Jeremy Hance has a new book entitled, Baggage: Confessions of a Globe Trotting Hypochondriac. In it, he openly and sometimes humorously describes his own struggles with mental illness including anxiety and depression as a child and how his later in life diagnosis of OCD affected and informed his work as a world traveling environmental journalist. Despite the challenges and opportunities his condition presents, Jeremy relishes his time interviewing field researchers in some of the most remote and biodiverse locations in the world. That Sounds Wild: Asian E...
2020-09-2441 min
Zoo LogicAnimal Welfare and SoftwareDr. Isabella Clegg is an ethologist researching animal welfare, particularly in cetaceans, and developing species assessments in zoological settings. David Kleven is a zoo animal professional and founder of Animal Care Software. Together, they developed a new animal welfare assessment software module that caregivers can use other mobile devices in the field and in real time. The goal is to have customized data collection and analysis to better understand the welfare needs of animals at the species and individual levels. Dr. Clegg also gives a quick update on two beluga whales transferred from China to an ocean sea pen...
2020-09-1741 min
Zoo LogicWhat Species Are Most Vulnerable to COVID-19?Researchers at UC Davis published a paper recently describing through computational methods the relative risk of COVID-19 infection to over 400 species examined. Nearly half of the species studied are listed as threatened or endangered. Some of the animals found to be most at risk were not too surprising, such as endangered Old World apes. Still others, particularly reptiles and birds, represent a lower risk. Our guests, Dr. Yvonne Nadler from the USDA funded ZAHP Fusion Center and Dr. Dominic Travis, University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine discuss how this research will help the zoological and veterinary health community...
2020-09-1039 min
Zoo LogicThe Future of Zoos and Aquariums (part 2)It's part two of our conversation about the future with zoo and aquarium thought leaders from the Denver Zoo, Indianapolis Zoo, Dolphin Discovery, and Karen Pryor Clicker Training. Coinciding with the news that at least 1 major aquarium has decided to close public operations temporarily to reassess its business model in a COVID-19 reality, our panel looks at revenue streams and the need for greater creativity going forward. They also stress the need for organizations to put trade association differences aside and work together, lest all facilities (and as a result, possibly animal welfare) suffer during these troubling public health...
2020-09-0339 min
Zoo LogicThe Future of Zoos and Aquariums (part 1)Following our conversation with futurist Bob Johansen last week, we assembled a panel of zoo and aquarium thought leaders with diverse backgrounds, interests and organizations, to get their views on what the future may hold for zoological facilities and professionals. Topics include: sharing how they adapted their guest experience, infrastructure, and staffing roles to address the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic upon reopening; the re-focus on smaller, personal interactions among animals, staff, and guests versus large audience events and attractions; and the implications for budgets and revenues now and forever. Denver Zoo Indianapolis Zoo
2020-08-2735 min
Zoo LogicFull-Spectrum Thinking with Futurist Bob JohansenGiven the globally disruptive challenges presented by COVID-19, zoos, aquariums, and the conservation and research organizations they support are in serious financial jeopardy. So to help sort out a robust pathway forward, we sought the assistance of renowned futurist, Dr. Bob Johansen from the Institute for the Future. In his latest book, he describes the importance of a Full-Spectrum Thinking mindset to avoid the brain's tendency towards rigid categorical thinking. With the next decade expected to be even more chaotic than today such rigidity is not only outdated, it often leads to a false certainty and all too simplistic bi...
2020-08-2056 min
Zoo LogicHow Do You Solve a Problem Like Hvaldimir? A Conversation with Lindsay RubincamMore than a year after his arrival in the waters of Norway, Hvaldimir, a trained beluga whale is surviving on his own while still seeking the company of his human family. Whether it's sleeping under maintenance boats at fish farms or engaging with people in crowded waterways, Hvaldimir may be living free in the open ocean but he's anything but wild. Marine mammal expert Lindsay Rubincam shares how a social media network tracking his whereabouts is helping a team of volunteers insure his future well being and informing Norway Fisheries. One thing is clear, Hvaldimir is touching...
2020-08-131h 18
Zoo LogicProactive Aggression Management Using Positive ReinforcementAnimal training experts Chuck Tompkins and Ted Turner return for a third installment on behavioral principles to discuss how operant conditioning using positive reinforcement in managed care can prevent and at minimum reduce the frequency and intensity of aggressive behaviors directed at other animals, caregivers, or the immediate environment. The goal is not to react to or try to suppress aggressive responses after they have happened as traditional punishment-based training often calls for, but to prevent the fear or frustration that leads to aggression before it ever occurs. Animal Care Software ZOOmility Zoo...
2020-08-061h 34
Zoo LogicRising Tide ConservationRenowned veterinary pathologist and researcher, Dr. Judy St. Leger is the president of Rising Tide Conservation. According to its website, Rising Tide Conservation is dedicated to developing and promoting aquaculture of marine ornamental fish species through the collaborative efforts of researchers, public aquaria, hobbyists, pet industry professionals, and conservation groups. Rising Tide Conservation facilitates sustainability in the aquarium industry by supporting marine ornamental fish aquaculture research in order to reduce the impacts of wild fish collection on fish populations and the coral reefs where they live. That Sounds Wild: Screech owl. Frank Buck Zoo. Visit ou...
2020-07-3034 min
Zoo LogicCorrecting the Narrative: what recent research actually teaches us about cetaceans in our care and in the wildThis special episode features a series of panel presentations based on recently published peer-reviewed papers about dolphin life expectancy, orca longevity, cetacean dive physiology, and two rebuttals of Marino et al 2019. Panelists Kelly Jaakkola, Kevin Willis, Andreas Fahlman, Heather Hill, Kathleen Dudzinski, & Jason Bruck present data, as well as, commentary on a case study example of a published paper on orca welfare that never should have cleared the peer-review process. Our panel of scientists clarify what we currently know and don't know about two popular species of marine mammals in human care and in the wild across a few...
2020-07-231h 24
Zoo LogicPacific Marine Mammal CenterFriend of the podcast, Dr. Hendrik Nollens describes his new role as VP of Conservation Medicine and Science at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center. In addition to responding to marine mammal stranding events along the entire coastline of Orange County, the PMMC has an ongoing role in public education, original wildlife research, as well as, assisting wild animals, particularly large cetaceans, entangled by ropes and other fishing debris. Dr. Nollens sees advancements in veterinary medicine and animal husbandry science developed in zoological facilities being increasingly utilized proactively to intervene with wild animals, including endangered species, at risk from injury...
2020-07-1635 min
Zoo LogicA Conversation About Race and ZoosModern zoos and aquariums are agents for positive change. Through conservation, public education, in situ and ex situ research, and the display of amazing animals, zoological facilities inspire people of all ages to care about the well-being of wildlife and wild places. Still, it doesn't take one long to realize that these organizations so dedicated to preserving biodiversity are, in fact, not all that diverse in terms of their workforce, especially across animal-related departments and occupations. Given the ongoing historical protests for racial equality and justice, how are zoos and aquariums endeavoring to build more diverse teams? What roadblocks...
2020-07-0947 min
Zoo LogicHumanism vs Behavior ManagementOur recent episode on the Least Reinforcing Scenario (#113) set download records and elicited so much feedback from listeners that we invited long time animal training experts Chuck Tompkins and Ted Turner back to discuss other controversial operant conditioning terms and topics. The Intermediate Bridge and End of Session signal are two such concepts about which few behavior training professionals are ambivalent. Chuck and Ted reflect on the validity of these concepts and warn trainers against letting humanistic interpretations of animal responses cloud their decision-making when it comes to behavior management using operant conditioning. That Sounds Wild: African l...
2020-07-021h 06
Zoo LogicPittsburgh Zoo's Dr. Barbara BakerDr. Barbara Baker the president and CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium for thirty years spoke at the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums annual meeting in February (just as the COVID-19 pandemic was arriving in the United States) as part of a panel discussion made up of leaders of major zoological organizations from around the world. She also serves as the Board Chair for the trade association known as the Zoological Association of America. Dr. Baker shares her insights on Expedia's decision to support ticket sales to zoos and aquariums accredited by a few trade g...
2020-06-2524 min
Zoo LogicBig Baby BelugaRecently, the Georgia Aquarium site of the Animal Planet show, The Aquarium, announced the birth of a large female beluga whale calf. Long time marine mammal husbandry and training professionals, Eric Gaglione and Dennis Christen describe the extensive planning and staff preparation that occurs in advance of any cetacean birth. Most important to the process is the extensive desensitization training based upon operant conditioning and positive reinforcement that the expectant mother receives from her caregivers. The goal is to prepare the team and the animals for any conceivable contingency prior to, during, and after parturition. Hear the latest on...
2020-06-181h 00
Zoo LogicThe Least Reinforcing ScenarioFew behavioral terms or concepts have engendered as much discussion, confusion, and heated debate among zoo professionals, behaviorists, and animal trainers over the past thirty years as the Least Reinforcing Scenario, known simply as LRS. Two of the original LRS architects, Chuck Tompkins and Ted Turner, describe the concept and the fundamental shift in behavioral psychology it represented by rejecting the status quo of traditional animal training that urged trainers to say "no" to animals when they make a mistake. Chuck and Ted clarify what the LRS is and is not, and why its development made trustful relationships and...
2020-06-111h 04
Zoo LogicUnderstanding Dolphin Pulmonary PhysiologyDr. Andreas Fahlman returns with doctoral candidate Alicia Espinosa to describe their research using tools and knowledge of human spirometry to better understand dolphin pulmonary function. Their goal is to establish a baseline of small cetacean pulmonary physiology measures for use in assessing wild and stranded dolphin respiratory health. Global Diving Research That Sounds Wild: Bottlenose Dolphin whistle Animal Care Software Peppermint Narwhal Zoo Logic
2020-06-0433 min
Zoo LogicBroken Trust: When the Peer Review Process Breaks DownWith science proving to be an easy target these days for those looking to politicize it, what lasting harm is done to the public discourse and society's faith in anything the research community at large has to report on any subject, in those rare instances when unsubstantiated, misleading, or unethically crafted papers clear a respected journal's peer review process? Dr. Heather Hill, principle author of the recent rebuttal letter to one such concerning peer-reviewed paper joins researcher Jason Bruck, PhD to discuss the implications for us all. That Sounds Wild: Red Tailed Hawk. Frank Buck Z...
2020-05-281h 14
Zoo LogicInto the COVID-19 Lion's Den: a physician's story of life and death at a NYC ICUWhen the plea for help went out across the US for medical professionals to lend their talents to the city hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic, like nearly 100 thousand of his colleagues, Ohio surgeon Dr. Ray Gagliardi answered the call. Dr. Ray shares his insights into the myriad of ways the deadly disease attacks the human body making it much more than just a respiratory illness. That Sounds Wild: Great Horned Owls. Frank Buck Zoo Animal care Software Peppermint Narwhal Zoo Logic
2020-05-2147 min
Zoo LogicOkapi: Ghosts of the ForestsJohn Lukas is president of the Okapi Conservation Project which works in the Democratic Republic of Congo to study, protect and preserve the elusive large mammal known as okapi, nicknamed the ghost of the forest. Despite its large size for a forest-dwelling species, the okapi, a relative of the giraffe, was only recently described by western civilization in the early 1900's. Its great mass enables it to easily plow through dense jungle forests which serve to camouflage the species from predators like leopards as well as humans. That Sounds Wild: Flamingos Frank Buck Zoo Animal Ca...
2020-05-1453 min
Zoo LogicWhen Legislator Agendas Trump Animal WelfareThe Director of Research for the Dolphin Research Center, Dr. Kelly Jaakkola is back describing a recent Connecticut bill intended to ban all relevant activities surrounding cetaceans living in human care. The bill's timing coincides with a federal import permit application by the state's only marine mammal facility, the Mystic Aquarium, seeking to add a handful of beluga whales born at a crowded facility in Canada. Mystic Aquarium has a well regarded rescue and research program for animals in human care and the wild so the bill's intent seems more concerned with ending public display rather than ensuring the...
2020-05-0736 min
Zoo LogicDeepwater Horizon: Still Deadly Ten Years LaterThe National Marine Mammal Foundation has been studying chronic effects from the Deepwater Horizon disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, one of the largest oil spills in history. The NMMF's Director of Medicine, Dr. Forrest Gomez describes some of the findings from field research and wild population assessments on cetacean health and reproduction, particularly for bottlenose dolphins. The data shows dolphins are still experiencing toxic effects more than 10 years later with some populations not expected to recover for decades. That Sounds Wild: Squirrel monkey. Frank Buck Zoo. Peppermint Narwhal Animal Care Software
2020-04-3049 min
Zoo LogicCatastrophic: Zoos and Aquariums Fight for Survival Against COVID-19San Antonio Zoo CEO Tim Morrow describes recent acquisitions, animal habitat improvements, and the William Smith Zoo School for preschool children at the historic zoo. In a story playing out at zoological facilities across the nation and world, Tim also describes the sudden financial and staffing challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented to this non-profit facility that is entirely dependent upon earned revenues and donations to fund its operations. No facility, regardless of tax and ownership status or funding sources has been immune to the economic impact of the pandemic. Yet, despite these unprecedented professional and personal hurdles...
2020-04-2336 min
Zoo LogicApe TreesWith the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, wildlife conservationist Julie Scardina introduces us to the work of Wild Earth Allies and its executive director, Katie Frohardt. WEA has conservation interests around the globe with a keen interest in Central Africa and the preservation of gorillas. With the aid of scientists experienced at successfully studying and conserving mountain gorillas from the brink of extinction a few decades ago to well over 1000 individuals today, WEA is working to preserve the endangered Grauer's gorilla. Mitigating the threats to this lowland gorilla subspecies whose population is decreasing by 5% per year is made more d...
2020-04-1646 min
Zoo LogicPreventing the Next Pandemic: A Humane Conversation About Our Social Contract with AnimalsAs the oldest animal welfare organization in the US, American Humane and its CEO Dr. Robin Ganzert work to improve welfare across the companion, military, farm, entertainment, and zoological animal world. As the SARS-CoV-2 spread continues to affect the lives of animals and people around the globe, American Humane is stepping up to provide online materials and support to organizations and animals in need. Dr. Ganzert discusses how the current pandemic is more evidence of how humans have violated the social contract we have with animals and that we must do better to share humane values and practices around...
2020-04-0947 min
Zoo LogicThe Politics of SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic Modeling, Public Health, and ConservationUniversity of Minnesota researcher and former VP of Science and Conservation for Lincoln Park Zoo, Dominic Travis, DVM specializes in wildlife epidemiology. His primary area of interest is understanding the interface between humans, domestic animals and wildlife species, and how that interface affects our health, food safety, and conservation. How has our polarized political environment in an election year contributed to the public's confusion over the scientific method, as it pertains to the value of mathematical models, as government agencies scramble to use their evolving predictions to inform and communicate effective health policies addressing the global crisis? T...
2020-04-0254 min
Zoo LogicGlobal Response of Zoos and Aquariums to the COVID-19 PandemicFollowing a personal message of unity to zoo fans and professionals everywhere from Jungle Jack Hanna, the CEO of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) describes the impact of COVID-19 on its nearly 300 member facilities. As the global alliance of regional associations, national federations, zoos and aquariums, dedicated to the care and conservation of animals and their habitats around the world, WAZA is coordinating its messaging and resources with the latest guidelines from the World Health Organization as well as regional and national authorities. While many businesses may close during this crisis, zoological professionals continue...
2020-03-2618 min
Zoo LogicPandemic: Balancing Animal Welfare with Public HealthAs the rest of the country became aware of the virus spreading in hard hit Washington state, the Seattle Aquarium was one of the first zoological facilities in the U.S. to announce it was closing to the public. Fortunately for the aquarium, their new Director of Life Sciences, Grant Abel, is all too familiar with dealing with regional pandemics from his previous posts in Asia. Grant describes the difficult decision process, the evolving plans, and the fiscal and operational challenges to ensuring the aquarium's collection of fish, marine mammals, birds, and staff members are well cared for as...
2020-03-1929 min
Zoo LogicOverlooked Species: Wading in to Save Animals No One Cares AboutDirector of Conservation for San Antonio zoo, Dr. Dante' Fenolio, says zoos are unique in their ability to take funds designated by families for entertainment and repurpose them for conservation research. This is especially important for overlooked species like the reticulated flatwoods salamander, which his team successfully hatched recently for the first time ever, because zoos are willing to invest time, money, and expertise to preserve unknown, uncharismatic, and endangered species like these and other amphibians. He cautions that conservation biology can't be rushed as this project took eleven years to achieve this breeding success in part because of...
2020-03-1235 min
Zoo LogicSpecial Delivery: Columbus Zoo's Historic Cheetah CubsAs a species, the odds of survival are stacked against cheetahs. From habitat loss and fragmentation, high infant mortality rates, poaching for the pet trade, and conflicts with humans Cheetahs face a myriad of threats. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has been supporting cheetah conservation, reproductive research, and public education through its ambassador program for over 20 years. Recently they announced the first ever successful births of cubs conceived through in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer. The emerging reproductive science, reward-based husbandry training, and trustful bond between animals and zookeepers may just offer a pathway forward to preserve this unique an...
2020-03-0527 min
Zoo LogicKen Ramirez part 2: Animal Training, Transformation, and TrustAnimal trainer Ken Ramirez has worked with dozens of species living in zoos and the wild. In part 2 of our conversation, Ken describes his years long effort to use behavioral science to teach a large herd of wild African elephants to avoid a centuries-old migratory route through a conflict zone. It's a hopeful example of the growing role for modern training methods in wildlife conservation and preservation. Plus, Ken has a new book unlike any he's written before entitled, The Eye of the Trainer: Animal Training, Transformation, and Trust. Clicker Training Animal Care Software Z...
2020-02-2730 min
Zoo LogicKen Ramirez: Animal Training, Transformation, and TrustFor over 40 years, author, consultant, zoological manager, behaviorist, and teacher, Ken Ramirez has explored and observed the natural world with a keen eye for animal training. There are few wild and domestic species living in human care that haven't benefited from his work as a positive reinforcement-based animal trainer. His new book available at ClickerTraining is a series of essays entitled The Eye of the Trainer: Animal Training, Transformation, and Trust. His latest field work connects conservation with behavioral science. That Sounds Wild: Lyrebird Animal Care Software Peppermint Narwhal Zoo Logic...
2020-02-2027 min
Zoo LogicOdysea Aquarium Conservation Expo part 2The Odysea Aquarium's annual and free Conservation Expo features many rescue, research, conservation and education focused organizations at work in the desert southwest and around the US. We talk with the director of the Scottsdale Community College's Center for Native and Urban Wildlife about its community outreach mission. Also, the Arizona Game and Fish Department operates several fish hatcheries to preserve endangered native species of fresh water fish and to support the sport fishing community. That Sounds Wild: Guinea Fowl. Frank Buck Zoo Animal Care Software Peppermint Narwhal Zoo Log...
2020-02-1318 min
Zoo LogicRemembering Dawn Brancheau: Dream BigFebruary 24th marks the 10-year anniversary of the tragic passing of marine mammal trainer, Dawn Brancheau. Her loss was felt not only by family and friends, but throughout the zoological community and the general public. We celebrate the life of Dawn, the passion she had for animals and training, and the work of the foundation created in her honor with people that knew her well: a close friend, a mentor and manager, a colleague, and a sibling. Plus, we try to assess where the zoological community is today following a decade of change, especially with regards to...
2020-02-061h 23
Zoo LogicOdysea Aquarium Conservation ExpoWe visited the Odysea Aquarium's third annual Conservation Expo featuring animal, research, higher education, and conservation related organizations working throughout the state of Arizona to preserve terrestrial and aquatic species and habitat at home and around the world. The free public event is part of the aquarium's education mission designed to increase awareness and support of nonprofit groups working in the community. Part 1 guests include Reid Park Zoo, Phoenix Zoo, and Arizona State University. That Sounds Wild: barn Owl. Frank Buck Zoo. Animal Care Software Peppermint Narwhal Zoo Logic F...
2020-01-3023 min
Zoo LogicConserving Rattlesnakes?Whether you are thrilled or terrified by them, people of all ages seem drawn to ectotherms like rattlesnakes. The Rattlesnake Conservancy works to change the public narrative about the value of these animals by educating communities, professionals, and first responders on how to safely handle and live alongside them. The conservancy also conducts and supports conservation research into various environmental and human caused threats to rattlesnake species survival. That Sounds Wild: Western Diamondback Rattlesnake Conservancy savethebuzztails.org Zoo Logic Podcast Animal Care Software Peppermint Narwhal
2020-01-2331 min
Zoo LogicInferno Down UnderThe historic wildfires underway across Australia threaten the existence of some of the most iconic species on earth. The fires have already consumed thousands of homes over a total area nearly equal to the size of the state of Indiana. Scientist estimate over 1 billion animals may have perished to date, including tens of thousands of individual animals from already threatened and endangered species such as the koala. Giving a firsthand account of the areas, species and critical habitats affected is Australian trainer, behavior consultant, and wildlife conservationist Jade Fountain. Also joining us is James Biggs...
2020-01-1644 min
Zoo LogicGayle Bass: Radio, TV and Animals, Oh My!Host of the viral videos television show Right This Minute (www.RightThisMinute.com), Gayle Bass reminisces about how her early career experiences such as an intern, a film critic, and a radio reporter led to her role as one of the original hosts of RTM, now starting its 9th season. As a huge fan of wild and domestic animals, and having met many animal ambassadors throughout her media career, Gayle shares some unique insights from years of scouring the Internet in search of the next video to go viral. Plus, she and Grey share memories of their earliest radio...
2019-08-0835 min
Zoo LogicGlobal perspectives on zoo animal training and welfare with IMATA's Billy HurleyExecutive Director of the International Marine Animal Trainers' Association, Billy Hurley joins Dr. Grey Stafford, former president of www.IMATA.org following their three-day training seminar held at Osaka ECO college for students and zoo professionals. Billy discusses cultural differences and similarities, as well as, training challenges and improved welfare opportunities for zoo and training professionals from his work in Japan and other regions of Asia. Beyond its original, near 50-year old core mission to promote modern methods of animal training using positive reinforcement for all species, especially marine mammals, what does he think the future role of IMATA...
2018-11-0852 min
Zoo LogicWhat [zoos] got here is failure to communicateOn location at the International Marine Animal Trainers' Association annual conference hosted by Zoomarine in Algarve, Portugal, Dr. Grey Stafford talks with Dr. Jo Fava, marine mammal ophthalmologist, about the importance of certain supplements in zoological diets. Specifically, she describes her interest in what is known and yet to be discovered about the role of carotenoids like lutein on pinniped and cetacean vision. Also featured is Élio Vicente, Director of External Affairs sharing his thoughts on the decades of contributions to marine mammal husbandry, veterinary medicine, public education, and display by his mentor and Zoomarine founder, Mr. P...
2018-10-2552 min
Animal Magnetism with Carolyn HennesyBrad Andrews and Dr. Grey StaffordThis episode touches on the reality of the conservation movement with thought provoking dialogue with our special guest Brad Andrews and our co-host, Dr. Grey Stafford.
2018-10-0655 min
Zoo LogicFires, Smoke, and Bears, Oh MySanta Barbara Zoo's Dr. Julie Barnes joins Zoo Logic's Dr. Grey Stafford to discuss the zoo team's evacuation response to 2017's record-breaking Thomas fire. From evacuating every creature to mobilizing a defensive position within a zoo to protect large, dangerous and not easily relocated animals like elephants and predators, every wildfire is different. Increasingly, zoos and aquariums must adapt and prepare for a variety of crisis situations including having little to no warning of unfolding disasters. Even as zoos become more involved with researching and preserving local threatened and endangered species and habitat, the impact of these intense fires...
2018-09-0635 min
Zoo LogicGood Animal Welfare: do we know it when we see it?What is good animal welfare and how do we measure it? Sabrina Brando, Animal Welfare Coordinator for the World Association of Zoos & Aquariums, talks with Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford about WAZA's work to increase collaboration among animal facilities and professionals to improve the lives of all animals across the globe. Also, a breaking Zoos News extended update with Marine Mammal veterinarian, Dr. Lydia Staggs on the Red Tide crisis along SW Florida's coastline harming thousands of animals including endangered turtles, manatees, and dolphins and what marine mammal professionals at SeaWorld and elsewhere are doing to help...
2018-08-2338 minZoo LogicKong is King of the Animal Training WorldHow did an old part from a VW bus and a rock chewing German Shepherd dog named Fritz lead to the most recognizable pet toy on earth? Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford asks Kong Company cofounder, Joe Markham and lead behavior and training specialist, Mark Hines about the history of the classic dog toy that's still made in the USA, and how it has helped solve problems for animals and people for more than 40 years. Hear how Kong's unique design and quality construction continues to find new behavior training and enrichment applications with police and military canines, zoo...
2018-08-1643 min
Zoo LogicAmerica's oldest college zookeeping program: EATM at MoorparkLong time Moorpark College professor Gary Wilson joins Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford to discuss the Exotic Animal Training and Management program, America's oldest professional zookeeping academic curriculum. Gary describes the early history of EATM at Moorpark first as a student and now as a long serving professor. Students develop advanced skills and gain practical experience learning and working at a functioning public zoo with about 130 animals. Gary and Grey discuss the evolution of zookeeping as a multidisciplinary and science-based career that is increasingly reliant on applied animal training principles. Plus the latest Zoos News, an a...
2018-08-0931 min
Zoo LogicElephant in the Courtroom: defending against activist threatsAnimal Law attorney Michelle Pardo joins host Dr. Grey Stafford to discuss legal challenges by animal rights groups using landmark laws such as the ESA, MMPA, and AWA to attack, not just zoos, but all domestic, pet, and wild animal activities, agriculture, and stakeholders. She describes important court rulings like PeTA's defeat in the "monkey selfie" case, the multimillion dollar settlement activist groups had to pay Ringling's parent company, and the evolving litigation strategies of zoo opponents using consumer protection statutes. The implications for animal professionals and zoo fans are scary! Plus the latest Zoos News, a new...
2018-08-0247 min
Zoo LogicZoos and researchers joining forces to preserve NatureDr. Jason Bruck joins Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford to talk about the increasingly important collaborative role between scientists and zoological facilities in order to preserve wild species. Jason describes his research on how complex social systems in cetaceans, primates and other vertebrates drive the evolution of complex learning and memory skills. They also discuss the role of a researcher and that of a paid lobbyist to answer whether a scientist can or should publish scientific papers at the same time he or she is lobbying on behalf of a client or issue. Plus the latest Zo...
2018-07-2640 min
Zoo Logic"Don't Be Shy," the legacy of the panda-looking porpoiseNOAA Fisheries scientist, Dr. Barbara Taylor, joins Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford to discuss the progress of women in science, her field work to help endangered marine mammals like the Bowhead whale rebound in numbers, and the recent efforts through vaquitaCPR.org to save the nearly extinct vaquita porpoise. While the fate of the vaquita may be sealed, the cooperative model and painful lessons learned over the past few years by scientists, marine mammal veterinarians, animal trainers and zoological professionals, governments, animal activists, and related conservation organizations to act early and boldly may just save other wild marine...
2018-07-1948 min
Zoo LogicOur time is now!Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford talks with Doug Cress, Chief Executive Officer of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. With nearly 400 facilities and regional associations, WAZA members wield great influence with 700M visitors per year. As the new CEO, Doug describes changes to WAZA leadership, direction, and plans for growth in membership as a more balanced and representative global organization. We also get WAZA's bold take on recent news that mega food producer, Nestle, has been expelled from the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) for failing to meet membership requirements designed to preserve rainforest habitat and...
2018-07-1241 minZoo LogicLeaving behind a Legacy of Kindness to AnimalsAnimal training consultant, Barbara Heidenreich, talks with Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford. Barbara specializes in avian, exotics and zoo animal training. She lectures and consults worldwide working with zoos, universities, veterinary professionals, pet owners and conservation projects. She has worked with over 80 facilities in over 20 countries. She is an adjunct clinical instructor at Texas A & M University. Much of her work focuses on training animals with positive reinforcement to cooperate in medical care, solving complex behavior problems, making day to day care easier and developing animal caregivers' training skills. Plus the latest Zoos News and an all n...
2018-07-0530 minZoo LogicHow to become an animal trainerTrainer, media personality, and author of the book, Wear a Wetsuit to Work, Kyle Kittleson talks with Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford about his journey from growing up in the desert to successfully becoming a marine mammal trainer. Kyle's journey prompted him to write a helpful how-to guide for those aspiring to become marine mammal trainers in a highly competitive field. Plus the latest Zoos News, a legislative update from whyanimalsdothething.com's Rachel Garner, and an all new That Sounds Wild.
2018-06-2833 minZoo LogicNo retirement for this animal ambassadorZoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford talks with Wildlife Heroes author, media personality, and retired SeaWorld and Busch Gardens animal ambassador, Julie Scardina and her continued work with several conservation groups around the world. Seemingly busier than before retirement, in addition to live audience and media appearances, Julie is a member of several boards including the SeaWorld-Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, which means evaluating hundreds of worthy funding proposals each year. At a critical time when habitats and animal populations are shrinking, she describes her work with zoos and wildlife organizations to help mentor young zoological professionals through the Emerging...
2018-06-2131 minZoo LogicNo Hollywood ending for the gentle Killer Whale starZoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford talks with Mark Simmons, author of Killing Keiko, the true story of Free Willy's return to the wild. As the behaviorist tasked with preparing Keiko mentally, physically, and behaviorally for possible release to the waters off Iceland, Mark describes firsthand why this gentle orca was never a good candidate for return and how those behind the project sealed his fate by ignoring the law and the best welfare interests of Keiko in favor of media attention and marketing. Abandoned by the only family he knew, humans, Keiko's sad and tragic end provides important...
2018-06-1453 minZoo LogicJungle Jack Hanna, animal adventurer and Emmy Award winning hostJungle Jack Hanna, Emmy Award winning host of Into the Wild joins Zoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford to talk about his love for animals and the important role of zoos and aquariums as "arks" to save wildlife and wild places. From his humble beginnings cleaning cages as a kid, Jack describes his 40-year zoo career and the tremendous growth of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the adventures of filming all over the globe, and his focus on "filming with respect." Plus the latest Zoos News, a new Ms Mallory Minute with national spokesperson Mallory Lindsay of M...
2018-06-0736 min
Zoo LogicSaving Rhinos from extinctionZoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford talks with Dr. Susie Ellis, Executive Director of the International Rhino Foundation (Rhinos.org) about the status of rhinos in Indonesia and Africa. For 25-years the IRF has been supporting research, education, and on the ground protection for the world's remaining species of rhinos. Susie describes some of the challenges the IRF team faces to prevent rhino extinction due to habitat loss, human encroachment, and record levels of poaching. Plus the latest Zoos News, a legislative update on Animal Rights Groups growing use of the ESA to further their anti-zoo agenda...
2018-05-3124 minZoo LogicElephant training and welfare expert, Erin IvoryZoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford talks with elephant trainer, international consultant and animal welfare advocate, Erin Ivory about her work since leading the effort to bring Mila, New Zealand's lone elephant to the U.S. to live out her days with other elephants at the San Diego Zoo. Erin discusses her work with SE Asia zoos and elephant camps to improve positive reinforcement-based training and expand the use of enrichment. According to Erin, sometimes the biggest impediment to achieving better animal welfare is convincing zoo directors of the critical need for using enrichment and reward-based training to improve t...
2018-05-2425 minZoo LogicUsing training principles first developed with dolphins to save vanishing speciesZoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford talks with long time marine mammal, pet, and wild animal training expert, Ken Ramirez, about the growing importance of science-based behavioral management for preserving wild populations of animals. Ken recalls his efforts to encourage primates through operant conditioning to use their natural distress call to alert nearby park rangers to the presence of poachers. He also describes his successful efforts to mitigate human - polar bear conflicts in the arctic. And, after an attack by poachers that left he and some of his team critically injured last year, Ken tells of his renewed...
2018-05-1736 minZoo LogicDolphin cognition and how scientists describe animal intelligenceZoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford talks with Dr. Kelly Jaakkola, the Director of Research for the Dolphin Research Center on dolphin cognition and how scientists describe animal intelligence. Kelly and Grey discuss how the public narrative and widespread misperceptions about dolphins and orcas affect public attitudes of these animals living in the wild and those living in human care. Plus the latest Zoos News and an all new That Sounds Wild.
2018-05-1718 minZoo LogicCelebrity animal activist to zoo advocate: a conversation with Carolyn HennesyZoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford talks with Emmy Award winning actor, best selling author, and zoo animal advocate, Carolyn Hennesy on the difference between advocacy and activism, and why the difference matters. Fans of Carolyn from her work on General Hospital, True Blood, Jesse and more will enjoy her candor describing her own personal journey from activist to vocal zoo advocate. Plus the latest Zoos News, a legislative update on the progress of the Big Cat Public Safety Act by whyanimalsdothething.com's Rachel Garner, and an all new That Sounds Wild.
2018-05-1723 minZoo LogicThe important role of science in today's modern zoological facilitiesZoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford talks with Dr. Kelly Jaakkola, the Director of Research for the Dolphin Research Center on the importance of science in the debate over whether animals like dolphins should be kept in human care. Kelly and Grey discuss how the public narrative and widespread misperceptions about dolphins and orcas affect public attitudes of these animals living in the wild versus those living in human care. Plus the latest Zoos News, an all new That Sounds Wild, and a legislative update by whyanimalsdothething.com's Rachel Garner explaining why it is illegal for carnivores to...
2018-05-1722 min
Zoo LogicActor Carolyn Hennesy shares her experiences with elephants from SE Asia to the LA ZooZoo Logic host Dr. Grey Stafford talks with Emmy Award winning actor, best selling author, and zoo animal advocate, Carolyn Hennesy on her experiences with elephants in SE Asia. Fans of Carolyn from her work on General Hospital, True Blood, Jesse and more will enjoy her candor describing her own personal journey from activist to vocal zoo advocate. Plus the latest Zoos News, an update on efforts to remove Los Angeles Zoo's Billy the elephant to a sanctuary, and an all new That Sounds Wild.
2018-05-1625 min