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Felid Taxon Advisory Group

MISSION STATEMENT

The Felid TAG's mission is to promote the conservation of felid species through the implementation of a Regional Collection Plan (RCP) in North American zoos and the economic use of resources.

The Mission is being implemented using a combination of strategies:

  • Encourage the successful genetic and demographic management of captive populations of felids through Species Survival Plans (SSP), studbooks, and Population Management Plans (PMP).
  • Link ex situ and in situ conservation programs, including training wildlife and zoo professionals in range countries and encouraging Population and Habitat Viability Assessments (PHVAs) and SSP-like programs in those countries.
  • Promote improved management of species through improvements in exhibitry, husbandry, environmental enrichment, and animal health.
  • Encourage education and training programs in zoos and range countries.
  • Encourage multi-disciplinary research.
  • Promote efforts for the recovery or reinforcement of felids into restored or secure areas, as appropriate and necessary.

Conservation Director at the Minnesota Zoo, Dr. Ron Tilson and former Zoo Registrar Kathy Traylor-Holzer both serve on the Felid Taxon Advisory Group helping to properly manage both captive and field conservation efforts for threatened and endangered cat species. To find out more about these efforts and see the group's long-range plans, please visit the following web site: http://www.csew.com/felidtag/