Conservation Program for the Golden Lion Tamarin: Captive Research and Management, Ecological Studies, Educational Strategies, and Reintroduction

Abstract

The future conservation of most threatened species will require not only the preservation and management of critical habitats but also scientifically managed propagation programs for captive animals by zoos. Zoos will undoubtedly have primary responsibility for the preservation and protection of genetic diversity through the maintenance of viable captive populations (or their deep-frozen equivalents). However, they should also have a role to play in supporting and contributing to the preservation of natural habitats through research and public education on environmental issues. Conservation programs by zoos, by international and national conservation organizations, and by governments should converge, as the size of critical habitats and refuges becomes smaller and the amount of land available to zoos and their involvement with endangered species becomes greater.