{"id":141252,"date":"2024-12-30T17:15:40","date_gmt":"2024-12-30T17:15:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/citizen-conservation.org\/faq\/"},"modified":"2025-03-20T14:46:06","modified_gmt":"2025-03-20T14:46:06","slug":"faq","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/citizen-conservation.org\/en\/faq\/","title":{"rendered":"FAQ"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row unlock_row_content=”yes” row_height_percent=”50″ override_padding=”yes” h_padding=”2″ top_padding=”2″ bottom_padding=”2″ back_image=”140887″ back_position=”center center” overlay_alpha=”30″ gutter_size=”3″ column_width_percent=”100″ shift_y=”0″ z_index=”0″ content_parallax=”0″ uncode_shortcode_id=”872511″ row_height_pixel=”160px” el_id=”top-faq-en”][vc_column width=”1\/1″][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_height_percent=”0″ override_padding=”yes” h_padding=”2″ top_padding=”4″ bottom_padding=”4″ back_color=”color-lxmt” back_image=”117834″ overlay_alpha=”0″ gutter_size=”4″ column_width_percent=”100″ shift_y=”0″ z_index=”0″ bottom_divider=”tilt” medium_visibility=”yes” mobile_visibility=”yes” content_parallax=”0″ uncode_shortcode_id=”385448″ back_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_column column_width_use_pixel=”yes” position_horizontal=”left” gutter_size=”0″ style=”dark” overlay_alpha=”50″ shift_x=”0″ shift_y=”0″ shift_y_down=”0″ z_index=”0″ medium_width=”0″ mobile_width=”0″ width=”1\/2″ column_width_pixel=”500″ uncode_shortcode_id=”208000″][uncode_breadcrumbs text_lead=”small” separator=”pipe”][vc_custom_heading auto_text=”yes” text_color=”color-xsdn” text_size=”h1″ text_weight=”500″ uncode_shortcode_id=”388913″ text_color_type=”uncode-palette” el_class=”page-title-bigger”][\/vc_custom_heading][\/vc_column][vc_column column_width_percent=”100″ gutter_size=”3″ overlay_alpha=”50″ shift_x=”0″ shift_y=”0″ shift_y_down=”0″ z_index=”0″ medium_width=”0″ mobile_width=”0″ width=”1\/2″ uncode_shortcode_id=”145176″][vc_custom_heading text_color=”color-jevc” uncode_shortcode_id=”124566″ text_color_type=”uncode-palette”]Do you have any questions? We have the answers \u2013 well structured and always available![\/vc_custom_heading][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_height_percent=”0″ back_color=”color-lxmt” back_image=”132071″ overlay_alpha=”0″ gutter_size=”4″ column_width_percent=”100″ shift_y=”0″ z_index=”0″ bottom_divider=”tilt” desktop_visibility=”yes” auto_height_device=”yes” content_parallax=”0″ uncode_shortcode_id=”484695″ back_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_column column_width_use_pixel=”yes” position_horizontal=”left” gutter_size=”0″ style=”dark” overlay_alpha=”50″ shift_x=”0″ shift_y=”0″ shift_y_down=”0″ z_index=”0″ medium_width=”0″ mobile_width=”0″ width=”1\/2″ column_width_pixel=”500″ uncode_shortcode_id=”476298″][uncode_breadcrumbs text_lead=”small” separator=”pipe”][vc_custom_heading auto_text=”yes” text_color=”color-xsdn” text_size=”h1″ text_weight=”500″ uncode_shortcode_id=”213738″ text_color_type=”uncode-palette” el_class=”page-title-bigger”][\/vc_custom_heading][vc_empty_space empty_h=”3″][\/vc_column][vc_column column_width_percent=”100″ gutter_size=”3″ overlay_alpha=”50″ shift_x=”0″ shift_y=”0″ shift_y_down=”0″ z_index=”0″ medium_width=”0″ mobile_width=”0″ width=”1\/2″ uncode_shortcode_id=”194347″][vc_empty_space empty_h=”1″][vc_custom_heading text_color=”color-jevc” heading_semantic=”h6″ text_weight=”400″ uncode_shortcode_id=”124959″ text_color_type=”uncode-palette”]Do you have any questions? We have the answers \u2013 well structured and always available![\/vc_custom_heading][vc_empty_space empty_h=”1″][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_height_percent=”0″ override_padding=”yes” h_padding=”1″ top_padding=”0″ bottom_padding=”0″ back_color=”color-gyho” overlay_alpha=”50″ gutter_size=”3″ column_width_percent=”100″ shift_y=”0″ z_index=”0″ mobile_visibility=”yes” content_parallax=”0″ uncode_shortcode_id=”202376″ el_class=”test-three” back_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_column column_width_use_pixel=”yes” position_horizontal=”left” gutter_size=”3″ override_padding=”yes” column_padding=”3″ back_color=”color-xsdn” overlay_alpha=”50″ shift_x=”0″ shift_y=”0″ shift_y_down=”0″ z_index=”0″ medium_width=”0″ mobile_width=”0″ width=”1\/1″ uncode_shortcode_id=”213233″ column_width_pixel=”1200″ back_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”162012″]\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row unlock_row_content=”yes” row_height_percent=”50″ override_padding=”yes” h_padding=”2″ top_padding=”2″ bottom_padding=”2″ overlay_alpha=”30″ gutter_size=”3″ column_width_percent=”100″ shift_y=”0″ z_index=”0″ desktop_visibility=”yes” medium_visibility=”yes” content_parallax=”0″ uncode_shortcode_id=”102097″ row_height_pixel=”160px”][vc_column width=”1\/1″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”648305″ el_id=”top-faq”]\n
> Ex situ species conservation<\/a><\/font><\/th>> Population management<\/a><\/font><\/th>> Species portfolio<\/a><\/font><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
> CC organisation<\/a><\/font><\/th>> Get involved with CC<\/a><\/font><\/th>> Veterinary medicine<\/a><\/font><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_height_percent=”0″ override_padding=”yes” h_padding=”1″ top_padding=”0″ bottom_padding=”0″ back_color=”color-gyho” overlay_alpha=”50″ gutter_size=”3″ column_width_percent=”100″ shift_y=”0″ z_index=”0″ content_parallax=”0″ uncode_shortcode_id=”249974″ el_class=”test-three” back_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_column column_width_use_pixel=”yes” position_horizontal=”left” gutter_size=”3″ override_padding=”yes” column_padding=”3″ back_color=”color-xsdn” overlay_alpha=”50″ shift_x=”0″ shift_y=”0″ shift_y_down=”0″ z_index=”0″ medium_width=”0″ mobile_width=”0″ width=”1\/1″ uncode_shortcode_id=”213233″ column_width_pixel=”1200″ back_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_separator sep_color=”” uncode_shortcode_id=”181408″ el_height=”2px”][vc_empty_space empty_h=”3″][vc_single_image media=”140873″ media_width_percent=”100″ media_ratio=”ten-three” advanced=”yes” media_items=”media|original,title” media_overlay_color=”color-wvjs” media_overlay_opacity=”60″ media_overlay_visible=”yes” media_overlay_anim=”no” media_text_visible=”yes” media_text_anim=”no” media_image_anim=”no” media_h_align=”center” media_h_position=”center” media_padding=”2″ media_title_dimension=”h1″ text_lead=”yes” mobile_visibility=”yes” uncode_shortcode_id=”149612″ media_overlay_color_type=”uncode-palette” el_id=”species-conservation”][vc_single_image media=”141074″ media_width_percent=”100″ media_ratio=”twentyone-nine” alignment=”center” advanced=”yes” media_items=”media|original,title” media_overlay_color=”color-wvjs” media_overlay_opacity=”60″ media_overlay_visible=”yes” media_overlay_anim=”no” media_text_visible=”yes” media_text_anim=”no” media_image_anim=”no” media_v_position=”top” media_padding=”1″ media_title_dimension=”h1″ text_lead=”yes” desktop_visibility=”yes” medium_visibility=”yes” uncode_shortcode_id=”143092″ el_id=”species-conservation-mobile” media_overlay_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_accordion no_toggle=”yes” typography=”advanced” sign=”plus” sign_size=”md” content_border=”yes” gutter_simple=”0″ no_h_padding=”yes” radius=”lg” titles_size=”h5″ titles_weight=”600″ uncode_shortcode_id=”167616″ active_tab=”0″][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”What sense does it make to preserve species in human care?” tab_id=”1671541890-1-6216728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab2″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”183435″]We are in the midst of a biodiversity crisis, at the beginning of a global mass extinction of species, comparable to the comet impact that once wiped out the dinosaurs. It is caused by the serious consequences of human activity, including habitat destruction, climate change, pollution, overexploitation, the spread of pathogens and invasive species. The only chance for many species to be saved over the coming decades is conservation breeding in human care. This is the only way to preserve options for the future, such as later reintroduction into their natural habitat once the situation has improved. Captive-bred specimens can also be released into the wild to support populations with weak individuals or to recolonise suitable habitats. Valuable knowledge and scientific data can be collected in conservation breeding programmes. And finally, the continued existence of a species, even if it is \u2018only\u2019 in human care, represents an ethical value in itself.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”Isn’t it much more important to preserve species in nature?” tab_id=”1671541890-2-7416728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab2″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”356641″]Yes, but in many cases this will not be enough. Protection in the natural habitat will come too late for many species, because habitats are already severely damaged. The number of surviving individuals is too low, because threat factors cannot be eliminated quickly enough.
\nIn addition, conservation measures are often not even initiated because societies are currently unwilling or unable to initiate or implement the necessary steps \u00a0to the extent required, such as the protection of natural areas or climate protection.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”What does ex situ<\/em> mean?” tab_id=”1671542087726-2-116728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab2″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”629840″]In species conservation, a distinction is made between measures that protect species in their natural habitat \u2013 in situ<\/em> in technical jargon. Measures outside the natural habitat in human care are called ex situ<\/em>.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”What is the One Plan Approach (OPA)?” tab_id=”292da2c4-9bc3-616728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab2″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”176469″]The One Plan Approach is a concept for species conservation proposed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which states that all available resources and capacities as well as the socio-economic framework conditions on site should be considered and utilised together to save endangered species, both in situ and ex situ. Scientifically managed zoos are also committed to the One Plan Approach.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”Why should ex situ populations be coordinated?” tab_id=”b2da8cd6-4d15-81715764968962fbe5-5ab2″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”104960″]Coordination makes it possible to obtain an overview of the population in conservation breeding and its management.
\nConservation breeding usually has to be carried out over relatively long periods of at least several decades. Nobody knows how long the threat situation will last or when it might be possible to take further specimens of a species from the wild into captivity. In addition, conservation breeding always works with comparatively few specimens and therefore a limited gene pool. In order for the species to be preserved in the long term, it must be ensured that the population in human care remains demographically stable, with sufficient numbers of both young individuals and others of reproductive age. It must not become over-aged. Also, genetic diversity in the ex situ population must be prevented from decreasing, as through inbreeding or rapid mixing of genetic information of the source animals. To achieve this, it is necessary to control which individuals are mated with each other and how groups are put together.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”Why is it important for zoos and private animal keepers to collaborate?” tab_id=”b2da8cd6-4d15-81715764968962fbe5-5ab26″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”475475″]Researchers estimate that one to two million species are threatened with extinction in the coming decades. If even a small percentage of these are to be preserved under human care, we need a significant expansion of capacities for ex situ populations. Zoos alone cannot achieve this. Private animal keepers possess a wealth of knowledge, experience, time, space, and money, as well as numerous individuals of endangered species. We cannot afford to forgo these resources. On the contrary, private keepers are generally able to engage more intensively with their animals than is possible in an institution like a zoo, which is subject to economic constraints. Therefore, private individuals often contribute significantly to the increase of knowledge or breeding successes of the species they care for.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”What good is it if a species survives in human care but is already extinct in the wild?” tab_id=”b2da8cd6-4d15-81715764968962fbe5-5ab263″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”883708″]The improvement or restoration of habitats is a realistic scenario in many cases. For species where a healthy population is available in human care, reintroduction measures can be successfully implemented. There are numerous examples of this, from the European bison to the Northern Bald Ibis. In addition, living representatives of a species in human care also have a scientific value. And, of course, there are also emotional and cultural reasons \u2013 many people would like to be able to see a dodo, a mammoth or a golden toad, even if only in a zoo. Biodiversity is also a value in itself. To summarise: we preserve options for the future when we keep a species in human care. If it is completely extinct, many of these options no longer exist.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][\/vc_accordion][vc_column_text text_lead=”small” uncode_shortcode_id=”741211″]<\/p>\n

> Back to the top<\/a><\/p>\n

[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space empty_h=”4″][vc_single_image media=”140869″ media_width_percent=”100″ media_ratio=”ten-three” advanced=”yes” media_items=”media|original,title” media_overlay_color=”color-wvjs” media_overlay_opacity=”60″ media_overlay_visible=”yes” media_overlay_anim=”no” media_text_visible=”yes” media_text_anim=”no” media_image_anim=”no” media_h_align=”center” media_h_position=”center” media_padding=”2″ media_title_dimension=”h1″ text_lead=”yes” mobile_visibility=”yes” uncode_shortcode_id=”177829″ el_id=”population-management” media_overlay_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_single_image media=”141066″ media_width_percent=”100″ media_ratio=”twentyone-nine” alignment=”center” advanced=”yes” media_items=”media|original,title” media_overlay_color=”color-wvjs” media_overlay_opacity=”60″ media_overlay_visible=”yes” media_overlay_anim=”no” media_text_visible=”yes” media_text_anim=”no” media_image_anim=”no” media_v_position=”top” media_padding=”1″ media_title_dimension=”h1″ text_lead=”yes” desktop_visibility=”yes” medium_visibility=”yes” uncode_shortcode_id=”771512″ el_id=”population-management-mobile” media_overlay_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_accordion no_toggle=”yes” typography=”advanced” sign=”plus” sign_size=”md” content_border=”yes” gutter_simple=”0″ no_h_padding=”yes” titles_size=”h5″ titles_weight=”600″ uncode_shortcode_id=”422852″ active_tab=”0″][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”What do the CC target figures mean?” tab_id=”1671541890-1-6216728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab23″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”188365″]Population biology and many years of experience in zoos have given rise to scientifically based calculation models that can be used to estimate how many individuals are needed to maintain the ex situ population of a species over a certain period of time while minimising the loss of genetic diversity, taking into account biological conditions such as the number of offspring, sexual maturity, number of years of reproductive activity, etc. We have calculated this for a period of 40 years (which corresponds to the usual definition of two human generations) with 90% genetic diversity. In the case of CC, we have calculated this for a period of 40 years with a preservation of 90% of genetic diversity. The number of individuals determined in this way is therefore required for permanently stable conservation breeding over this period \u2013 this is our target number of individuals. As a second target number, we determined the number of facilities required for this species. To do this, we assume the average group size per enclosure and divide the target number of individuals by this value.
\nThe calculated target numbers can be modified due to external factors. For example, if we know of well-functioning conservation breeding programmes outside of CC, they can be reduced because the risk of extinction of the species is then reduced by the other conservation breeding programme. If problems arise later in this other project, the numbers can be increased again. They are dynamic and can be adapted to current findings at any time.
\nThe target numbers are therefore scientifically based estimates.
\nAchieving them does not mean that the species is already \u2018safe\u2019, but that we have the necessary number of individuals and holdings available to maintain the ex situ population in the long term with proper population management. So this is where the real work begins.
\nWe publish our target figures and the extent to which we have achieved them on an ongoing basis on the species pages of our website and in our half-yearly livestock analyses.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”Why are more animals bred at CC than are necessary for the pure preservation of the CC population?” tab_id=”1671541890-2-7416728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab24″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”111939″]In order for conservation breeding to remain stable in the long term, breeding must also take place in the individual holdings. Just as almost all skills need to be trained and utilised in practice on an ongoing basis in order to retain them, the animal keepers also need to keep practising and keep confirming and expanding their skills in practice. Additional data and findings should also be collected. The animals themselves must also be able to reproduce, both to live out their behavioural repertoire and to ensure their ability and willingness to reproduce in the respective husbandry. We know from animal husbandry practice of numerous cases in which keepers, after initial breeding successes, assumed that their animals would be able to provide offspring at any time, so to speak, on demand \u2013 until it did not work out later for unexplained reasons.
\nPrecise control of the number of offspring is technically impossible for many species. Maintaining a healthy demographic in the ex situ population makes it imperative that not only animals that die of old age can be replaced.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”What happens to animals that are no longer needed for the breeding programme?” tab_id=”1671542087726-2-116728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab26″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”953573″]Animals that are no longer needed for the breeding programme according to the defined breeding objectives should not remain in the programme, as they block urgently needed capacities for others. Preference should be given to marketing these animals, unless other aspects speak against it. We believe it makes sense to meet demand with individuals from our breeding programme in order, on the one hand, to get more people interested in animal husbandry in terms of expanding capacity and, on the other hand, to increasingly serve the market with animals from coordinated and controlled origins instead of meeting this demand exclusively with animals from other sources.
\nIf commercialisation is not possible, culling can be an adequate means of population management. Different legal requirements apply here depending on the country. One widely accepted and considered sensible option is to feed the animals to predators. All amphibians and snakes, as well as many fish and other reptiles, feed predatorily on other animals, often even on their own offspring. There are numerous opportunities here to put bred animals that are not needed in the breeding programme to good use.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”What is income used for?” tab_id=”292da2c4-9bc3-616728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab20″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”143642″]CC is a non-profit organisation and works on a not-for-profit basis. The revenue generated from commercialisation of animals contributes to the financing of CC. It therefore helps to ensure the continued operation and expansion of CC. Furthermore, additional income over and above the normal budget enables us to support other efforts to protect our species, for example by cooperating with projects in the countries of origin.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”What happens to deformed animals?” tab_id=”b2da8cd6-4d15-81715764968962fbe5-5ab27″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”135775″]Deformities do not necessarily mean that the affected animal is not suitable for further breeding. However, this is often the case. If a veterinary indication shows that the animal cannot be treated and is suffering, it must be euthanised.
\nIf the animal is no longer to be used for breeding, euthanasia, for example by feeding, may be a sensible solution depending on the legal situation. Of course, it is also possible to hand over deformed animals to owners outside of CC.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”What options are there for population management within CC?” tab_id=”b2da8cd6-4d15-81715764968962fbe5-5ab270″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”896507″]As in any population, exactly three:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Fertility: The number of offspring can be controlled to a certain extent, for example by the number of eggs that are incubated. A temporary breeding stop can also be a sensible measure.<\/li>\n
  2. Migration: Animals can be added to the programme from outside or released outside, for example through marketing or for reintroduction projects.<\/li>\n
  3. Mortality: Animals can be killed, for example by feeding them.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”Are animals killed for population management?” tab_id=”b2da8cd6-4d15-81715764968962fbe5-5ab2702″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”424460″]Killing can be necessary and sensible for population management. However, the German law does not explicitly recognise population management as a reasonable reason for killing animals. In this respect, it is controversial whether killing animals solely for reasons of population management is permitted in Germany (unlike in Switzerland, for example). However, feeding is generally recognised as a reasonable reason for killing. In practice, this is often a simple and sensible approach, as many species kept in aquariums and terrariums also feed on other animals, often including their own offspring. In many cases, larvae and juveniles can be fed to their parents or other carnivores.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”Is inbreeding a problem?” tab_id=”b2da8cd6-4d15-81715764968962fbe5-5ab27022″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”516097″]Inbreeding, i.e. the reproduction of close blood relatives, does not automatically lead to problems in all species. Many animal species can obviously reproduce successfully over many generations or even permanently and produce healthy offspring, even if they are closely related. A famous example of this is the European bison, where the entire world population is based on just a few original animals, with no recognisable problems.
    \nIn principle, however, a breeding programme should endeavour to reflect the genetic diversity of the population as much as possible. This is why it is important to coordinate the breeding programme.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”Why do you set up breeding programmes if you only have very few founder animals?” tab_id=”b2da8cd6-4d15-81715764968962fbe5-5ab270226″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”123520″]It is often not possible to obtain as many founder animals for an ex situ population as would be desirable, e.g. because legal regulations prevent this or there are simply no longer enough individuals of this species. In this case, it may make sense to establish a breeding programme with significantly fewer founder animals, in extreme cases even with just one pair from a single clutch. As explained under the question \u2018Is inbreeding a problem?\u2019, this does not necessarily lead to inbreeding problems. This varies from species to species.
    \nIf the decision is to lose a species completely or to preserve only a very small part of its original genetic diversity, the latter is still the better option.
    \nAnd finally, there is always the chance of obtaining further animals later to replenish the ex situ population. Then there will already be experienced keepers and sufficient capacity available to breed them.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”How is genetic diversity maintained in the CC population?” tab_id=”b2da8cd6-4d15-81715764968962fbe5-5ab2702267″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”208268″]The aim of conservation breeding should be to preserve as much as possible genetic information and characteristics of the founder animals, especially those that are important for survival in the wild and thus for potential reintroductions.
    \nIf you have a sufficient number of source animals, care is taken to avoid mating close relatives. At the same time, you try to involve as many animals as possible in reproduction so that not only the genetic information of the best-adapted or dominant animals is passed on.
    \nIn principle, it makes sense to breed with the parent generation for as long as possible, as genetic diversity can decrease with each successive generation without the addition of external animals.
    \nSubsequently, it is better to breed siblings of the same generation to each other than to breed the offspring to the parents, as this is more likely to maintain genetic diversity.
    \nContrary to what many breeders intuitively think, it is often better to breed in an ex situ population over several generations of branches without crossing them with animals from other lines. This crossbreeding is saved for a later point in time so as not to mix the genetic information of the founder animals too early. This is because conservation breeding is intended to continue over a long period of time, and it is often not known whether it will be possible to obtain further animals from outside during this time.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”Do you release your offspring into the wild?” tab_id=”b2da8cd6-4d15-81715764968962fbe5-5ab27022676″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”557974″]At CC, we do not release any animals into the wild. Target-oriented Reintroduction projects are complex and should only be carried out with scientific support. This requires local organisations in the countries of origin. CC cooperates with appropriate partner organisations where possible. In line with the \u2018One Plan Approach\u2019, CC is committed to providing animals for such projects through ex situ measures.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][\/vc_accordion][vc_column_text text_lead=”small” uncode_shortcode_id=”360120″]<\/p>\n

    > Back to the top<\/a><\/p>\n

    [\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space empty_h=”4″][vc_single_image media=”140879″ media_width_percent=”100″ media_ratio=”ten-three” advanced=”yes” media_items=”media|original,title” media_overlay_color=”color-wvjs” media_overlay_opacity=”60″ media_overlay_visible=”yes” media_overlay_anim=”no” media_text_visible=”yes” media_text_anim=”no” media_image_anim=”no” media_h_align=”center” media_h_position=”center” media_padding=”2″ media_title_dimension=”h1″ text_lead=”yes” mobile_visibility=”yes” uncode_shortcode_id=”157050″ el_id=”species-portfolio” media_overlay_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_single_image media=”141070″ media_width_percent=”100″ media_ratio=”twentyone-nine” advanced=”yes” media_items=”media|original,title” media_overlay_color=”color-wvjs” media_overlay_opacity=”60″ media_overlay_visible=”yes” media_overlay_anim=”no” media_text_visible=”yes” media_text_anim=”no” media_image_anim=”no” media_v_position=”top” media_padding=”1″ media_title_dimension=”h1″ text_lead=”yes” desktop_visibility=”yes” medium_visibility=”yes” uncode_shortcode_id=”202074″ el_id=”species-portfolio-mobile” media_overlay_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_accordion no_toggle=”yes” typography=”advanced” sign=”plus” sign_size=”md” content_border=”yes” gutter_simple=”0″ no_h_padding=”yes” titles_size=”h5″ titles_weight=”600″ uncode_shortcode_id=”189467″ active_tab=”0″][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”Do you breed all the endangered species you can get?” tab_id=”1671541890-1-6216728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab238″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”573253″]No. We select species specifically for CC. Sensible conservation breeding requires a lot of capacity. The management of a species requires a great deal of human resources, both for technical support and for the coordination of the animal population and participants. Our human resources are limited by our financial resources. The number of species we can look after is therefore directly dependent on our budget. Donations and long-term financial support are therefore always welcome! In addition, the number of available capacities is limited by the number of participating keepers. The more participants, the greater the capacity![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”How are species selected for CC?” tab_id=”1671541890-2-7416728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab244″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”115738″]The CC Scientific Advisory Board forms smaller separate expert advisory boards for individual animal groups, which advise us on the selection of species. The criteria for this are, on the one hand, scientifically based factors, such as the degree of endangerment of a species according to the IUCN Red List or according to the Red Lists in the countries of origin. On the other hand, emerging threats, such as the advancing spread of the salamander-eating fungus Bsal or pending mining activities in the distribution area of a species that only occurs in small areas, can also speak in favour of including a species at CC. Another objective may be to curb the demand for imports of wild-caught species.
    \nSocial factors also play a role: as our species should always be ambassadors, both for their kin groups and for certain endangerment factors, we ensure a certain diversity of the species we look after. Extraordinary stories behind a species that arouse interest can also be a reason. The same applies to the question of how difficult a species is to keep. As we also include schools, for example, in order to build up further capacity, we always aim to add species that are relatively easy to care for.
    \nUltimately, it is also about pragmatism: we can only set up programmes for species from which we can obtain animals in the first place. Factors such as procurement costs and market value are also important here.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”Can I suggest species for CC?” tab_id=”1671542087726-2-116728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab265″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”427451″]Yes, if there is an opportunity to add species to CC that would make sense for our programme according to our criteria, we are of course always interested. Feasibility plays an important role here, i.e. whether animals are available at all or whether we can provide the necessary resources for permanent care. Together with our scientific advisory board, we discuss such proposals and may include the species in the CC programme.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”Can I bring my animals to CC?” tab_id=”292da2c4-9bc3-616728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab204″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”463221″]Do you have animals of a CC species at home and want to make them available for our conservation breeding programme? No problem! Of course, we first have to check whether these animals can be meaningfully integrated into our project, but we are always happy to receive this form of support. You can then keep the animals for CC yourself or make them available to other keepers.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”Why aren’t more species managed at CC?” tab_id=”b2da8cd6-4d15-81715764968962fbe5-5ab273″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”230559″]Because the necessary husbandry capacities must be available and because the management of a species costs money. The human resources required to coordinate the stock are high. In addition, husbandry recommendations have to be drawn up and continuously monitored for all species, questions from keepers have to be answered and our knowledge base has to be constantly expanded. Based on our experience in the first few years, we currently estimate the cost of managing a species at CC at around 6,000 euros per year. The number of species is therefore directly dependent on the budget we have available. And therefore on the support we receive from partner institutions and donations. Of course, we want to continue to expand our species portfolio in view of the large number of endangered species.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][\/vc_accordion][vc_column_text text_lead=”small” uncode_shortcode_id=”136370″]<\/p>\n

    > Back to the top<\/a><\/p>\n

    [\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space empty_h=”4″][vc_single_image media=”140877″ media_width_percent=”100″ media_ratio=”ten-three” advanced=”yes” media_items=”media|original,title” media_overlay_color=”color-wvjs” media_overlay_opacity=”60″ media_overlay_visible=”yes” media_overlay_anim=”no” media_text_visible=”yes” media_text_anim=”no” media_image_anim=”no” media_h_align=”center” media_h_position=”center” media_padding=”2″ media_title_dimension=”h1″ text_lead=”yes” mobile_visibility=”yes” uncode_shortcode_id=”103321″ el_id=”cc-organisation-en” media_overlay_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_single_image media=”141072″ media_width_percent=”100″ media_ratio=”twentyone-nine” advanced=”yes” media_items=”media|original,title” media_overlay_color=”color-wvjs” media_overlay_opacity=”60″ media_overlay_visible=”yes” media_overlay_anim=”no” media_text_visible=”yes” media_text_anim=”no” media_image_anim=”no” media_v_position=”top” media_padding=”1″ media_title_dimension=”h1″ text_lead=”yes” desktop_visibility=”yes” medium_visibility=”yes” uncode_shortcode_id=”164082″ el_id=”cc-organisation-en-mobile” media_overlay_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_accordion no_toggle=”yes” typography=”advanced” sign=”plus” sign_size=”md” content_border=”yes” gutter_simple=”0″ no_h_padding=”yes” titles_size=”h5″ titles_weight=”600″ uncode_shortcode_id=”163251″ active_tab=”0″][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”How big is the CC team?” tab_id=”1671541890-1-6216728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab2380″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”120585″]Our joint Frogs & Friends and CC team currently comprises seven permanent employees and a small number of freelancers.
    \nAs part of a management agreement, CC’s business is run jointly with the Frogs & Friends organisation. Since 2014, Frogs & Friends has set itself the task of breaking new ground in the communication of scientific topics as a \u2018PR agency for amphibians\u2019. The portfolio includes the areas of research, communication and networking, with a focus on the conception and realisation of permanent exhibitions (e.g. the Amphibium at Hannover Adventure Zoo) as well as the planning and implementation of research projects. All digital channels of both companies are managed by our editorial team.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”What are you actually doing in the CC office?” tab_id=”1671541890-2-7416728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab2448″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”197229″]Coffee!
    \nNo, seriously: coordinating an ex situ population is time-consuming. At the end of 2024, CC was looking after around 5,500 animals from 31 taxa in around 350 facilities. There is a digital file for each animal and each enclosure in which all important data is entered. Twice a year, we carry out a stock report, in which information from all the holdings about all the animals in our care is collected, entered and processed. If animals are to be sold, we look for new keepers or initiate the marketing process. We initiate the transport from A to B and help with its realisation if necessary. We answer content-related and technical questions from participants and interested parties. We compile husbandry recommendations and studbooks for our species and add to these on an ongoing basis. We collect information about our species. To this end, we communicate with experts on an ongoing basis. We organise an annual conference with our scientific advisory board and inform the public about our work and the importance of ex situ species conservation for species protection. To this end, we write texts and articles, produce podcasts and films, and attend conferences and events. We use social media channels and maintain our website. And we also make coffee.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”How is CC financed?” tab_id=”1671542087726-2-116728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab2658″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”193371″]The basic funding of the non-profit limited company Citizen Conservation Foundation is provided by the three shareholders     Frogs & Friends<\/a>, the German Association of Zoological Gardens<\/a> (VdZ) and the German Society for Herpetology and Terrarium Science<\/a> (DGHT). However, this only covers part of the annual costs. Further funding comes from fixed donations from our supporters, including numerous individual zoos. But donations and marketing revenue also contribute to CC’s budget. The more money we have at our disposal, the more species we can include in our programme and the more we can inform the public about the urgency of this task for society as a whole.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_accordion_tab][\/vc_accordion][vc_column_text text_lead=”small” uncode_shortcode_id=”124067″]<\/p>\n

    > Back to the top<\/a><\/p>\n

    [\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space empty_h=”4″][vc_single_image media=”140871″ media_width_percent=”100″ media_ratio=”ten-three” advanced=”yes” media_items=”media|original,title” media_overlay_color=”color-wvjs” media_overlay_opacity=”60″ media_overlay_visible=”yes” media_overlay_anim=”no” media_text_visible=”yes” media_text_anim=”no” media_image_anim=”no” media_h_align=”center” media_h_position=”center” media_padding=”2″ media_title_dimension=”h1″ text_lead=”yes” mobile_visibility=”yes” uncode_shortcode_id=”101211″ el_id=”get-involved-cc” media_overlay_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_single_image media=”141076″ media_width_percent=”100″ media_ratio=”twentyone-nine” advanced=”yes” media_items=”media|original,title” media_overlay_color=”color-wvjs” media_overlay_opacity=”60″ media_overlay_visible=”yes” media_overlay_anim=”no” media_text_visible=”yes” media_text_anim=”no” media_image_anim=”no” media_v_position=”top” media_padding=”1″ media_title_dimension=”h1″ text_lead=”yes” desktop_visibility=”yes” medium_visibility=”yes” uncode_shortcode_id=”141311″ el_id=”get-involved-cc-mobile” media_overlay_color_type=”uncode-palette”][vc_accordion no_toggle=”yes” typography=”advanced” sign=”plus” sign_size=”md” content_border=”yes” gutter_simple=”0″ no_h_padding=”yes” titles_size=”h5″ titles_weight=”600″ uncode_shortcode_id=”466052″ active_tab=”0″][vc_accordion_tab gutter_size=”2″ column_padding=”0″ title=”What can I do to support CC?” tab_id=”1671541890-1-6216728529668951715764968962fbe5-5ab23805″][vc_column_text uncode_shortcode_id=”194673″]There are four ways to support CC:<\/p>\n

> Ex situ species conservation<\/a><\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
> Population management<\/a><\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
> Species portfolio<\/a><\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
> CC organisation<\/a><\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
> Get involved with CC<\/a><\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n
> Veterinary medicine<\/a><\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n