Hi Ruston, my comment really stems from my involvement as a keeper at an AZA institution, and, having been to many large AZA reptile houses in the past few years. For the most part, upon entering one of these facilities, is that you are basically on your own during your self guided tour. In most cases, there is very little interaction with the animal keeping staff much less the animals themselves and the visitor gets a sense of distance from the exhibits and animals that they are watching and observing. I have discussed this at great length with some fellow colleagues of these very same institutions who express a certain degree of frustration. When I started my own wildlife museum I wanted to give my facility a much better sense of intimacy when our guests arrived. My full time keepers, and myself included, try to greet everyone; spend time with them, answer their questions, take them around and spend time on the floor.....I realize that this just isn't always possible at large institutions like your's. That's really what I was trying to get at. But, I've heard nothing but rave reviews about your place and I can't wait to come down there sometime to see it.

Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center
Lake Forest Parks & Recreation
Lake Forest, IL


>>I agree with Rob on most this topic. For a small to medium sized breeder or private individual it does not probably have allot impact.
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>>For larger institutions can have major impacts (but not always). It does a combination of things. The AZA has political pull in terms of with govt agencies, be it USFW, local state agencies, conservation organizations, etc...It is in theory a self regulated agency that strives for the highest standard of professionalism among zoological facilities. Of course, it has it's problems too like any big member organization.
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>>From a reptile perspective, many of my fellow herp colleagues take issue with a number of AZA practices as they have traditionally been a mammal center organization. Such trends are changing for the better, I think.
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>>As for Rob's comments "its all about hands on conservation education that we feel makes the greatest difference" - not sure I would agree, as each institution is very different and has very different educational messages and methods. The AZA does not really dictate the way one conducts its education programs.
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>>Just my 2 cents...
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>>-Ruston
>> Curator of Herpetology
>> Dallas Zoo
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Rob Carmichael, Curator
The Wildlife Discovery Center at Elawa Farm
Lake Forest, IL

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