European studbook for the giraffe eep
European studbook for the giraffe eep
European studbook for the giraffe eep
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EUROPEAN STUDBOOK<br />
FOR THE<br />
GIRAFFE EEP<br />
EDITION 6A, APRIL 2009<br />
DATA CURRENT THROUGH 31 DECEMBER 2008<br />
EEP Coordinator and <strong>studbook</strong> k<strong>eep</strong>er:<br />
Ir. Marc Damen, Rotterdam Zoo, The Ne<strong>the</strong>rlands
CONTENTS OF THE STUDBOOK<br />
Contents Page 2<br />
Introduction Page 3<br />
Giraffe EEP Annual Report 2008 Page 4<br />
In<strong>for</strong>mation on organisation of <strong>the</strong> <strong>studbook</strong> Page 4<br />
Overview of Giraffes in <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP as of 31 December 2008 Page 8<br />
Remarks on developments in 2008 Page 13<br />
Age distribution of all <strong>giraffe</strong>s in <strong>the</strong> EEP Page 14<br />
Husbandry and management guidelines Page 15<br />
General actions <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> year 2009 and later Page 15<br />
Future holders Page 17<br />
Status and development of <strong>the</strong> <strong>European</strong> <strong>studbook</strong> population Page 18<br />
The Kordofan <strong>giraffe</strong>s (G. c. antiquorum) Page 18<br />
The Cape <strong>giraffe</strong>s (G. c. giraffa) Page 19<br />
The Angolan <strong>giraffe</strong>s (G. c. angolensis) Page 20<br />
The Masai <strong>giraffe</strong>s (G. c. tippelskirchi) Page 21<br />
The Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong>s (G. c. reticulata) Page 22<br />
The Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong>s (G. c. rothschildi) Page 23<br />
The hybrid and unknown origin <strong>giraffe</strong>s (Giraffa camelopardalis) Page 24<br />
2
INTRODUCTION<br />
Rotterdam, 6 April 2009<br />
Never a dull moment with <strong>the</strong> EAZA Giraffe EEP. In 2008 we saw <strong>the</strong> results of <strong>the</strong> policy to<br />
phase out hybrid <strong>giraffe</strong>s: <strong>the</strong> number decreased by 11 (6%) from 200 to 189, while <strong>the</strong> total<br />
number of <strong>giraffe</strong>s increased from 525 to 554. There<strong>for</strong>e <strong>the</strong> share of <strong>the</strong> hybrids decreased to<br />
25% and <strong>the</strong> coming years a fur<strong>the</strong>r and even more rapid decrease is expected as more and<br />
more hyrids are removed from breeding conditions.<br />
The population of Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong>s increased again rapidly, <strong>the</strong> Reticulated and Kordofan<br />
<strong>giraffe</strong> population grew a bit more modest. So all in all <strong>the</strong> year 2008 saw <strong>the</strong> first results of<br />
all ef<strong>for</strong>ts done in <strong>the</strong> past years.<br />
The end of 2008 marked also <strong>the</strong> era of this species committee and in <strong>the</strong> beginning of 2009<br />
new species committee elections were held. The EEP Coordinator and Studbook k<strong>eep</strong>er (i.e.<br />
<strong>the</strong> undersigned) changed jobs again and EAZA decided, supported by <strong>the</strong> Giraffe &<br />
Antelope TAG, to move <strong>the</strong> coordination of this EEP with <strong>the</strong> present coordinator to<br />
Rotterdam Zoo.<br />
The EAZA Giraffe EEP is on <strong>the</strong> right way and achieving <strong>the</strong> goals <strong>the</strong> previous species<br />
committee had set itself half a decade ago. It can only be hoped that this development can be<br />
continued and accelerated with <strong>the</strong> next, newly elected species committee.<br />
The prospects <strong>for</strong> this are bright, as, despite <strong>the</strong> blue tongue, in 2008 over 100 <strong>giraffe</strong>s were<br />
transported. This year, 2009, seems to beat that again.<br />
The Giraffe EEP again looks <strong>for</strong>ward to a fruitful cooperation with all participants, in <strong>the</strong><br />
interest of <strong>the</strong> <strong>giraffe</strong>s and all institutions involved.<br />
Best regards,<br />
Marc Damen<br />
EAZA Giraffe EEP Coordinator<br />
Director / CEO, Rotterdam Zoo<br />
The Ne<strong>the</strong>rlands<br />
3
GIRAFFE (Giraffa camelopardalis)<br />
EEP Annual Report 2008<br />
1. In<strong>for</strong>mation on organisation of <strong>the</strong> <strong>studbook</strong><br />
EEP co-ordinator:<br />
International <strong>studbook</strong> k<strong>eep</strong>er:<br />
Ir. Marc Damen<br />
Rotterdam Zoo, NL<br />
directie@rotterdamzoo.nl<br />
None<br />
Species committee: Aalborg: Jens Lilleør<br />
Period: 2004-2008 Arnhem: Tom de Jongh<br />
Barcelona: Conrad Enseñat<br />
Belfast: Mark Challis<br />
Chester: Mark Pilgrim<br />
Dortmund: Frank Brandstätter<br />
Duisburg: Achim Winkler<br />
Dvur Kralove: Ludek Culik<br />
Emmen: Pierre de Wit<br />
Givskud: Richard Østerballe<br />
Hannover: Heiner Engel<br />
Köln: Waltraut Zimmermann<br />
Lisbon: Eric Bairrao Ruivo (until september 2008)<br />
Ljubljana: Irena Furlan<br />
Maktoum: Sean Mc Keown<br />
Osnabrück: Ute Magiera<br />
Rotterdam: Angela Glatston<br />
Sigean: Marianne Bilbaut<br />
Whipsnade: David Field<br />
Species committee: Antwerp: Sander Hofman<br />
Period: 2009-2013 Basel: Friederike von Houwald<br />
Chester: Tim Rowlands<br />
Doué-Fontaine: Pierre Gay<br />
Dvur Kralove: Ludek Culik<br />
Duisburg: Jochen Reiter<br />
Givskud: Richard Østerballe<br />
Hannover: Heiner Engel<br />
Hilvarenbeek: Lars Versteege<br />
Madrid: Jesús Fernandez Moran<br />
Marwell: Ian Goodwin<br />
Nyiregyhaza: Endre Papp<br />
Prague: Jaroslav Šimek<br />
Rhenen: Gerard Meijer<br />
Stuttgart: Ulrike Rademacher<br />
Warsaw: Anna Jacucinska<br />
Woburn: Jake Veasey<br />
4
Advisors:<br />
General advisor:<br />
Veterinary advisor:<br />
Nutritional advisors:<br />
Conservation advisor:<br />
Genetical advisor :<br />
Husbandry guidelines:<br />
Gün<strong>the</strong>r Schleußner, Stuttgart<br />
Jacques Kaandorp, Hilvarenbeek<br />
Jürgen Hummel, Bonn University<br />
Marcus Clauss, Zürich University<br />
Pierre Gay, Doué-la-Fontaine<br />
Rob Ogden, University of Wales<br />
Are published in July 2006 on CD-ROM as enclosure of<br />
<strong>the</strong> third edition of <strong>the</strong> Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong> EEP <strong>studbook</strong> and<br />
can be found on <strong>the</strong> EAZA website.<br />
Species co-ordinators in o<strong>the</strong>r regions:<br />
Laurie Bingaman Lackey from ISIS is PMP-k<strong>eep</strong>er<br />
Lorraine Jolly from Werribee is Australasian species coordinator<br />
Isao Shimizu from Tama Zoo, Tokyo, is JAZA Giraffe<br />
Studbook k<strong>eep</strong>er<br />
Last edition of<br />
<strong>European</strong> <strong>studbook</strong>:<br />
O<strong>the</strong>r publications:<br />
August 2007 <strong>the</strong> third edition of <strong>the</strong> <strong>giraffe</strong> <strong>studbook</strong>,<br />
including historical data from all <strong>giraffe</strong>s of all<br />
subspecies, was published in electronic <strong>for</strong>m.<br />
September 2007, edition 4 of <strong>the</strong> <strong>studbook</strong>, containing<br />
data current through <strong>the</strong> end of 2006, was published.<br />
April 2008, edition 5 of <strong>the</strong> <strong>studbook</strong>, containing data<br />
current through <strong>the</strong> end of 2007, was published.<br />
* Brown, David M., R. Brenneman, K.P. Koepfli, et al.,<br />
2007. Extensive population genetic structure in <strong>the</strong><br />
<strong>giraffe</strong>. In: BMC Biology 2007, 5: 57.<br />
* Kauffels, Dr. T, 2008. Neue Giraffenhaltung im Zoo<br />
Kronberg (New k<strong>eep</strong>ing of <strong>giraffe</strong>s at Opel Zoo<br />
Kronberg). In: Zool. Garten N. F. 77 (2008) 191 – 206.<br />
5
Conservation activities:<br />
The “Association pour la Sauvegarde des Girafes du<br />
Niger” (ASGN) tries to protect Nigerian <strong>giraffe</strong>s (Giraffa<br />
camelopardalis peralta) and <strong>the</strong>ir habitat, while<br />
improving <strong>the</strong> wellbeing of <strong>the</strong> local people in Niger.<br />
This project is currently mainly supported by Doué-la-<br />
Fontaine/FR and Dalton-in-Furness/GB.<br />
Research activities:<br />
* Wildlife DNA Services, University of Wales, UK, is<br />
developing a suitable paternity test <strong>for</strong> <strong>giraffe</strong>s.<br />
* Mitochondial DNA variability in Giraffa<br />
camelopardalis: consequences <strong>for</strong> taxonomy,<br />
phylogeography and conservation of <strong>giraffe</strong>s in West and<br />
central Africa. Project of <strong>the</strong> National Museum of<br />
Natural History of Paris (which includes Paris zoo).<br />
* The Danish Cardiovascular Research Programme<br />
(DaGir) is studying <strong>the</strong> cardiovascular system of <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
to better understand <strong>the</strong> humans cardiovascular system<br />
and diseases related to it.<br />
6
History of <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP<br />
1988: Established <strong>for</strong> Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong>s only.<br />
Co-ordinated by Dr. Anton Brotzler, Stuttgart.<br />
1991: Decided to include all <strong>giraffe</strong>s and to trans<strong>for</strong>m<br />
Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong> EEP into Giraffe EEP.<br />
1995: Dr. Anton Brotzler retired and was succeeded by<br />
Dr. Gün<strong>the</strong>r Schleußner from Stuttgart.<br />
2001: Publication of <strong>the</strong> first Giraffe EEP <strong>studbook</strong>,<br />
with data current through 31 December 1999.<br />
2003: Publication of <strong>the</strong> second Giraffe EEP <strong>studbook</strong>,<br />
with data current through 31 December 2001.<br />
2003: The Giraffe EEP was split up into two separate<br />
EEPs: The Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong> EEP included also<br />
<strong>the</strong> Masai <strong>giraffe</strong> and was co-ordinated by Dr.<br />
Gün<strong>the</strong>r Schleußner from Stuttgart. The Baringo<br />
<strong>giraffe</strong> EEP included all o<strong>the</strong>r <strong>giraffe</strong>s and was<br />
co-ordinated by Ir. Marc Damen from Arnhem.<br />
Species committee elections were held.<br />
2004: Meeting in Dvur Kralove to prepare husbandry<br />
guidelines.<br />
2006: Publication of <strong>the</strong> third edition of <strong>the</strong> Baringo<br />
<strong>giraffe</strong> EEP <strong>studbook</strong> with data current through<br />
<strong>the</strong> end of 2005, including husbandry and<br />
management guidelines <strong>for</strong> <strong>giraffe</strong>s on CD.<br />
2006: Re-union of <strong>the</strong> Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong> EEP and <strong>the</strong><br />
Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong> EEP into <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP<br />
(which includes again all <strong>giraffe</strong>s), co-ordinated<br />
by Marc Damen from Overloon.<br />
2007: Publication of <strong>the</strong> third edition of <strong>the</strong> Giraffe<br />
<strong>studbook</strong>, including historical data from all<br />
<strong>giraffe</strong>s of all subspecies (in electronic <strong>for</strong>m).<br />
Publication of edition 4 of <strong>the</strong> <strong>studbook</strong>,<br />
containing data current through <strong>the</strong> end of 2006.<br />
2008: Publication of edition 5 of <strong>the</strong> <strong>studbook</strong>,<br />
containing data current through <strong>the</strong> end of 2007.<br />
2009: EEP and Studbook succeeded to Marc Damen at<br />
Rotterdam Zoo. New species committee<br />
elections.<br />
7
Overview of <strong>the</strong> <strong>studbook</strong> population:<br />
A Group B C D E Group F<br />
Institution<br />
G.c. antiquorum<br />
G.c. giraffa<br />
G.c. angolensis<br />
Aalborg / DK 2.5 2.5<br />
Almaty / KZ 3.3 3.3<br />
Amersfoort / NL 1.0 3.0 3.0 7.0<br />
Amsterdam / NL 3.1 3.1<br />
Antwerp / BE 0.3 0.1 0.4<br />
Arnhem / NL 6.13 6.13<br />
Attica / GR 3.0 1.0 4.0<br />
Augsburg / DE 1.2 1.1 2.3<br />
Bandholm / DK 1.4 0.3 0.1 1.8<br />
Banham / GB 1.5 1.5<br />
Barcelona / ES 3.2 3.2<br />
Basel / CH 0.4 0.4<br />
Belfast / GB 0.1 1.4 1.5<br />
Berlin, Tierp / DE 0.1 1.5 1.6<br />
Berlin, Zoo / DE 1.2 1.2<br />
Bewdley / GB 1.0 5.2 6.2<br />
*Blackpool / GB 1.3 1.3<br />
Boras / SE 1.3 1.3<br />
Bratislava / CR 2.0 1.0 3.0<br />
Brno / CZ 1.2 1.2<br />
Budapest / HU 1.3 1.3<br />
Bussolengo / IT 1.0 3.0 4.0<br />
Cabarceno / ES 6.0 6.0<br />
Cambron / BE 3.0 3.0<br />
Champrépus / FR 2.0 1.0 3.0<br />
Chester / GB 1.1 0.5 1.6<br />
Colchester / GB 1.0 1.0 1.0 3.0<br />
Coulange / FR 3.0 3.0<br />
Dalton-Furness/GB 3.0 3.0 1.0 7.0<br />
Debrecen / HU 2.0 2.0<br />
Deigné / BE 2.1 0.1 2.2<br />
Dompierre / FR 1.1 0.1 1.2<br />
Dortmund / DE 3.5 3.5<br />
Doué-Fontaine / FR 1.6 1.6<br />
G.c. tippelskirchi<br />
G.c. reticulata<br />
G.c. rothschildi<br />
G.c. hybrids<br />
G.c. unk subspecies<br />
Total<br />
8
A Group B C D E Group F<br />
Institution<br />
G.c. antiquorum<br />
G.c. giraffa<br />
G.c. angolensis<br />
*Dresden / DE 1.0 1.0 2.0<br />
Dubai-Safa_NE / AE 6.5 6.5<br />
Dubai-WC / AE 0.3 0.3<br />
Dublin / IE 1.2 1.2 2.4<br />
Dudley / GB 0.3 0.1 0.4<br />
Duisburg / DE 2.3 2.3<br />
Dvur-Kralove /CR(2) 4.13 4.12 8.25<br />
*Ebeltoft / DK 0.2 0.3 0.5<br />
Emmen / NL 1.7 1.7<br />
Erfurt / DE 1.0 0.1 1.1<br />
Estepona / ES 2.1 2.1<br />
Falconara / IT 2.0 2.0<br />
Fota / IE 2.7 0.2 2.9<br />
Frankfurt / DE 1.5 1.5<br />
*Gdansk / PL 2.0 2.0<br />
Gelsenkirchen/DE 2.5 2.5<br />
Givskud / DK 3.5 1.0 4.5<br />
Hamburg / DE 1.2 1.2<br />
Hannover / DE 2.3 2.3<br />
Hilvarenbeek / NL 1.11 1.11<br />
Ieper / BE 1.2 1.2<br />
Jaderberg_NE / DE 2.3 2.3<br />
Jerez / ES 1.2 1.2<br />
Jerusalem / IS 3.5 3.5<br />
Jurques / FR 2.3 2.3<br />
Karlsruhe / DE 1.4 1.4<br />
Katowice / PL 2.0 2.0<br />
Kaunas / LT 1.0 1.0 2.0<br />
Kerkrade / NL 1.3 1.3<br />
Kessingland/GB 0.4 0.4<br />
Kiriat-Motzkin/ IL 1.0 1.0<br />
Knowsley / GB 3.0 3.0<br />
Kobenhavn / DK 2.3 2.3<br />
Kolmarden / SE 0.4 0.4<br />
Koln / DE 2.5 2.5<br />
Krenglbach / AT 1.1 1.1<br />
G.c. tippelskirchi<br />
G.c. reticulata<br />
G.c. rothschildi<br />
G.c. hybrids<br />
G.c. unk subspecies<br />
Total<br />
9
A Group B C D E Group F<br />
Institution<br />
G.c. antiquorum<br />
G.c. giraffa<br />
G.c. angolensis<br />
Kristiansand / NO 1.0 1.0 0.1 2.1<br />
Kronberg / DE (2) 2.4 2.4<br />
Kyiv / UA 3.0 3.0<br />
La Boissiere / FR 1.2 1.2<br />
La Fleche / FR 1.2 0.2 1.4<br />
Leipzig / DE 2.8 2.8<br />
Liberec / CR 2.6 2.6<br />
Lignano / IT 1.1 1.1<br />
Lisbon / ES 3.6 3.6<br />
Lisieux / FR 1.0 1.0 2.0 4.0<br />
Ljubljana / SI 2.0 3.0 5.0<br />
Lodz / PL 1.1 1.1<br />
London / GB 0.3 0.3<br />
Lympne / GB 3.0 1.1 4.1<br />
Lyon / FR 1.2 0.2 1.4<br />
Madrid / ES 2.0 2.0<br />
Magdeburg / DE 1.2 1.2<br />
Malton / GB (2) 2.3 2.3<br />
Marwell / GB 1.1 3.5 4.6<br />
Maubeuge_NE/FR 2.1 2.1<br />
Moskva / RU (2) 0.4 1.0 1.4<br />
Munich / DE 2.2 2.2<br />
Munster / DE 1.2 1.2<br />
Muzillac / FR 2.0 2.0<br />
Neunkirchen / DE 2.0 1.0 3.0<br />
Nuremberg / DE 2.4 2.4<br />
Nyiregyhaza / HU 1.0 0.3 1.3<br />
Odense / DK 1.0 1.0<br />
Olomouc / CR 3.10 3.10<br />
Opole / PL 2.3 2.3<br />
Osnabrück / DE 1.3 2.1 3.4<br />
Ostrava / CR 2.3 2.3<br />
Paignton / GB 1.2 1.2<br />
Palic / YU 1.0 0.1 1.1<br />
Paris-Zoo / FR 4.11 4.11<br />
Peaugres / FR (2) 2.1 1.3 3.4<br />
Pelissane / FR 3.4 3.4<br />
Pessac_NE / FR 1.3 1.3<br />
G.c. tippelskirchi<br />
G.c. reticulata<br />
G.c. rothschildi<br />
G.c. hybrids<br />
G.c. unk subspecies<br />
Total<br />
10
A Group B C D E Group F<br />
Institution<br />
G.c. antiquorum<br />
G.c. giraffa<br />
G.c. angolensis<br />
*Pistoia / IT 1.1 1.1<br />
*Planckendael / BE 1.4 1.4<br />
Pleugueneuc / FR 1.0 0.1 1.1 2.2<br />
Plock / PL 1.2 1.2<br />
Pont-Scorff / FR 2.0 1.0 1.0 4.0<br />
Port St Père_NE / FR 2.3 2.3<br />
Poznan / PL 1.0 0.2 1.2<br />
Praha / CR 5.9 5.9<br />
Rhenen / NL 1.2 1.2<br />
Riga / LV 3.0 3.0<br />
Rishon Le Zion_NE/IL 0.2 0.2<br />
Roma / IT 1.4 1.4<br />
Romanèche / FR 1.1 1.1<br />
Rotterdam / NL 1.6 1.6<br />
Rostov_NE / RU 0.1 0.1<br />
Royan / FR 1.0 0.3 1.3<br />
Saarbrücken / DE 0.1 1.0 1.1<br />
Sables-Olonne / FR 3.2 3.2<br />
Schwerin / DE 2.1 2.1<br />
Sigean / FR (3) 3.9 1.3 4.12<br />
St Aignan / FR 3.0 2.0 1.0 6.0<br />
St Petersburg /RU 0.1 0.1 0.2<br />
Stuttgart / DE 1.2 1.2<br />
*Tabernas / ES 1.0 1.0 2.0<br />
Tel Aviv / IL (2) 2.0 1.1 2.2 5.3<br />
Thoiry / FR 1.0 4.0 5.0<br />
Twycross / GB 1.2 1.2<br />
Usti / CR 2.5 2.5<br />
Valencia Bio / ES 1.1 0.2 1.3<br />
Vienna / AT 1.0 1.2 2.2<br />
Warminster /GB 1.10 1.10<br />
Warsaw / PL 2.3 2.3<br />
Whipsnade / GB 3.2 3.2<br />
Woburn / GB 4.6 4.6<br />
Wroclaw / PL (2) 1.0 2.1 3.1<br />
Zlin / CR 1.1 0.2 1.3<br />
G.c. tippelskirchi<br />
G.c. reticulata<br />
G.c. rothschildi<br />
G.c. hybrids<br />
G.c. unk subspecies<br />
Total<br />
# = no reply received<br />
* = new participant<br />
(2) or (3): number of separate enclosures / facilities if more than one<br />
11
G.c. antiquorum<br />
A Group B C D E Group F<br />
G.c. giraffa<br />
G.c. angolensis<br />
Institution<br />
TOTAL GIRAFFES<br />
# at end of 2008 68 42 20 5 118 310 142 47 754<br />
# at end of 2007 62 43 19 7 113 283 151 47 725<br />
# at end of 2006 63 41 16 8 110 253 142 46 679<br />
# at end of 2005 57 35 17 7 98 243 139 46 642<br />
# at end of 2004 53 33 17 10 101 217 142 57 630<br />
# at end of 2003 51 32 19 13 99 205 133 55 607<br />
# at end of 2002 52 18 20 16 92 207 118 45 568<br />
G.c. tippelskirchi<br />
% at end of 2008 9% 6% 3% 1% 16% 41% 19% 6% 100%<br />
% at end of 2007 9% 6% 3% 1% 16% 39% 21% 6% 100%<br />
% at end of 2006 9% 6% 2% 1% 16% 37% 21% 7% 100%<br />
% at end of 2005 8% 5% 3% 1% 15% 38% 22% 7% 100%<br />
% at end of 2004 8% 5% 3% 2% 16% 34% 23% 9% 100%<br />
% at end of 2003 8% 5% 3% 2% 16% 34% 22% 9% 100%<br />
% at end of 2002 9% 3% 4% 3% 16% 36% 21% 8% 100%<br />
G.c. reticulata<br />
G.c. rothschildi<br />
G.c. hybrids<br />
G.c. unk subspecies<br />
Total<br />
Sh are (% )<br />
45<br />
40<br />
35<br />
30<br />
25<br />
20<br />
15<br />
10<br />
5<br />
0<br />
Development of share of Giraffe subspecies<br />
since initiation of Giraffe EEP<br />
1991<br />
1992<br />
1993<br />
1994<br />
1995<br />
1996<br />
1997<br />
1998<br />
1999<br />
2000<br />
2001<br />
2002<br />
2003<br />
2004<br />
2005<br />
2006<br />
2007<br />
2008<br />
As of end of<br />
G.c.<br />
rothschildi<br />
G.c.<br />
hybrids<br />
G.c.<br />
reticulata<br />
G.c.<br />
antiquorum<br />
G.c.<br />
giraffa<br />
G.c.<br />
angolensis<br />
G.c.<br />
tippelskirchi<br />
12
Remarks on developments during 2008:<br />
The total population of <strong>giraffe</strong>s included in <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP increased by only 3% (29 animals) till<br />
754 animals. This is much lower than in 2007, when <strong>the</strong> EEP grew with 6% (46 <strong>giraffe</strong>s).<br />
However, this is not as bad as it sounds at <strong>the</strong> first sight. In <strong>the</strong> first place a growth of 3% is<br />
enough to fill all additional spaces in <strong>the</strong> EEP; more important is that <strong>the</strong> reduced growth is mostly<br />
realised by a strong (6%) decrease in <strong>the</strong> population of hybrids; <strong>the</strong>y now comprise ‘only’ 25% of<br />
<strong>the</strong> population; this was 27% at <strong>the</strong> end of 2007. Currently more measures are being undertaken<br />
to fur<strong>the</strong>r slow down <strong>the</strong> reproduction of hybrids by actively placing as many hybrids as possible<br />
in single sex groups. This development is expected to continue and go faster in <strong>the</strong> future as more<br />
and more hybrids are being excluded from reproduction and placed in single sex groups. For that<br />
reason single sex groups of hybrids will be needed also in <strong>the</strong> near future.<br />
The number of institutions participating in <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP increased by six till 143 during 2008.<br />
Dresden/DE and Gdansk/PL started with an all male group, while Blackpool/GB and Ebeltoft/DK<br />
started k<strong>eep</strong>ing a group of hybrid females. Planckendael/BE is also a new participant; <strong>the</strong>y<br />
received <strong>the</strong> breeding group of Antwerp but as part of <strong>the</strong> deal Antwerp received a hybrid female<br />
group as well. Tabernas / ES is a new member of EAZA and is k<strong>eep</strong>ing an all male group. No<br />
institutions gave up k<strong>eep</strong>ing <strong>giraffe</strong>s.<br />
The EAZA Giraffe and Antelope TAG decided in 2003 to k<strong>eep</strong> all subspecies of <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
separated, although it could not be proved that Kordofan and Nigerian <strong>giraffe</strong>s are two subspecies.<br />
During 2007 research proved that it are indeed two subspecies, but, more important, all so-called<br />
Nigerian <strong>giraffe</strong>s turned out to be Kordofan <strong>giraffe</strong>s, and this also applies to <strong>the</strong> crossbreeds of<br />
<strong>the</strong>se two populations. The holders of <strong>giraffe</strong>s of this subspecies and <strong>the</strong> Species Committee<br />
decided to accept <strong>the</strong> results of this scientific study and this was proposed to <strong>the</strong> EAZA Giraffe &<br />
Antelope TAG, who also accepted it. So from this moment on all <strong>for</strong>mer Nigerian <strong>giraffe</strong>s,<br />
Kordofan <strong>giraffe</strong>s as well as <strong>the</strong>ir crossbreeds are listed as Kordofan <strong>giraffe</strong>s.<br />
There<strong>for</strong>e <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP is split up into six groups:<br />
A. The Kordofan <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
B. The Sou<strong>the</strong>rn <strong>giraffe</strong>s (Cape and Angolan <strong>giraffe</strong>s)<br />
C. The Masai <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
D. The Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
E. The Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
F. The hybrid <strong>giraffe</strong>s and <strong>giraffe</strong>s of unknown origin.<br />
13
Age distribution<br />
As one can see on <strong>the</strong> age distribution printed below, it has a quite healthy ‘pyramid shape’.<br />
However, <strong>the</strong> number of females exceeds <strong>the</strong> number of males (297 males, 451 females), although<br />
slightly this is getting more equal. This can be declared by exports of males to non-EEP<br />
participants some years ago, as well as by <strong>the</strong> fact that male groups are in many cases being kept<br />
by less experienced institutions, and <strong>the</strong> mortality of <strong>giraffe</strong>s is higher in new holders. The last<br />
years <strong>the</strong> number of males is increasing more rapidly than <strong>the</strong> number of females, due to <strong>the</strong> fact<br />
that no animals are allowed to leave <strong>the</strong> EEP.<br />
Age Pyramid Report GIRAFFE Studbook<br />
Status: Living on 1 Jan 2009<br />
GIRAFFA CAMELOPARDALIS<br />
Age<br />
Males|Females<br />
--- N = 297 --------------- N = 451<br />
30- |X<br />
29- |<br />
28- |<br />
27- |XX<br />
26- |X<br />
25- |X<br />
24- X|X<br />
23- X|X<br />
22- X|X<br />
21- X|XXXX<br />
20- X|XX<br />
19- X|XXXXX<br />
18- X|XXX<br />
17- X|XX<br />
16- XX|XXXXX<br />
15- XXX|XXXXX<br />
14- XXXX|XXXXXX<br />
13- XXXX|XXXXXXXX<br />
12- XX|XXXXXXX<br />
11- XX|XXXXXXXXXXX<br />
10- XXXXXXX|XXXXXXXXXXX<br />
9- XXXXXXXX|XXXXXXXXXXX<br />
8- XXXXXXXXXXX|XXXXXXXXXX<br />
7- XXXXXXXXXX|XXXXXXXXXXXXX<br />
6- XXXXXXX|XXXXXXXXXXXX<br />
5- XXXXXXXXXXXX|XXXXXXXXXXXXXX<br />
4- XXXXXXXXXXXX|XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX<br />
3- XXXXXXXXXX|XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX<br />
2- XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX|XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX<br />
1- XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX|XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX<br />
0- XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX?|?XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX<br />
- | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |<br />
48 40 32 24 16 8 8 16 24 32 40 48<br />
Number of Animals<br />
14
Husbandry and management guidelines<br />
In 2006 husbandry and management guidelines were published. The guidelines are written by<br />
specialists, each in his or her own area of specialisation:<br />
Nutrition:<br />
Transport:<br />
Veterinary issues:<br />
Husbandry:<br />
General items:<br />
Marcus Clauss, University of Zürich, Schwitzerland.<br />
Jürgen Hummel, University of Bonn, Germany.<br />
Zdenek Barta, Dvur Králové, Czech Republic.<br />
Jacques Kaandorp, Hilvarenbeek, <strong>the</strong> Ne<strong>the</strong>rlands<br />
Ludek Culik, Dvur Králové, Czech Republic.<br />
Waltraut Zimmermann, Köln, Germany.<br />
Marc Damen, Arnhem, <strong>the</strong> Ne<strong>the</strong>rlands.<br />
Gün<strong>the</strong>r Schleussner, Stuttgart, Germany.<br />
Kristina Tomasova, Dvur Králové, Czech Republic.<br />
These guidelines were distributed to all participants in <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP in electronic <strong>for</strong>m and also<br />
published on <strong>the</strong> member area of <strong>the</strong> EAZA website. They were amended by <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP<br />
Species Committee and <strong>the</strong>re<strong>for</strong>e all participants in <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP are requested to follow <strong>the</strong>se<br />
guidelines in <strong>the</strong> husbandry and management of <strong>giraffe</strong>s.<br />
General actions <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> year 2009 and later<br />
All pure <strong>giraffe</strong> females should be brought into a breeding situation as soon as possible; this<br />
means with a male of <strong>the</strong> same subspecies and without a male of ano<strong>the</strong>r subspecies.<br />
More important is to fur<strong>the</strong>r restrict <strong>the</strong> breeding of hybrid <strong>giraffe</strong>s. The EEP is now slowly<br />
coming in <strong>the</strong> position that <strong>the</strong> production of pure <strong>giraffe</strong>s can cope with <strong>the</strong> growth in spaces in<br />
<strong>the</strong> EEP; <strong>the</strong>se additional places should be taken by pure <strong>giraffe</strong>s only. The year 2009 will be<br />
mainly used to discuss with <strong>the</strong> new species committee if we can slowly put more restrictive<br />
measurements on <strong>the</strong> production of hybrids and to stop <strong>the</strong> production of hybrids. All of this needs<br />
to be done carefully to avoid empty <strong>giraffe</strong> enclosures.<br />
As already stated last year, we should avoid that hybrid males are in a breeding situation. In those<br />
exceptional cases where hybrid females are still breeding, <strong>the</strong>y should do so with pure males. That<br />
way pure males can be ‘tested’ <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir reproductive capabilities and in case <strong>the</strong>re would be pure<br />
females available <strong>for</strong> this institution in <strong>the</strong> future, <strong>the</strong>y already have a pure male. All hybrid males<br />
should be placed in bachelor groups.<br />
In new, inexperienced, institutions <strong>the</strong> mortality of <strong>giraffe</strong>s turns out to be higher than in<br />
experienced institutions. This can be declared by <strong>the</strong> fact that <strong>the</strong> k<strong>eep</strong>ers and staff are less<br />
experienced with <strong>giraffe</strong>s and <strong>the</strong> facilities have not yet been tested by <strong>giraffe</strong>s. For that reason all<br />
new institutions have to start with a single sex group, ei<strong>the</strong>r males, or hybrid females, to gain<br />
experience. Once gained positive experience and if females become available at a certain point,<br />
one could switch to a breeding group. It would not be fair if new institutions start with a breeding<br />
group, while o<strong>the</strong>rs, who already gained experience and who followed <strong>the</strong> recommendations, have<br />
to stick to a bachelor group. Please be prepared to wait long be<strong>for</strong>e getting a breeding group of<br />
pure <strong>giraffe</strong>s; <strong>the</strong>re are already over 30 institutions waiting in line at <strong>the</strong> moment and please be<br />
aware we will always need single sex groups to control <strong>the</strong> development of <strong>the</strong> population.<br />
Still a few institutions are transporting <strong>giraffe</strong>s without approval of <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP to non-EEP<br />
participants. As one can see on <strong>the</strong> next page, <strong>the</strong>re are many alternative destinations within <strong>the</strong><br />
Giraffe EEP. As in previous years, all transfers that have not been approved by <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP<br />
will have to be reported to <strong>the</strong> Antelope and Giraffe TAG, in <strong>the</strong> interest of <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP and<br />
<strong>the</strong> institutions who are cooperating.<br />
15
EAZA Institutions currently k<strong>eep</strong>ing a single sex group or having <strong>the</strong>ir facilities ready to accept<br />
<strong>giraffe</strong>s of a single sex:<br />
Institution Current subspecies Number as<br />
of end 2008<br />
Maximum<br />
Number<br />
Amersfoort / NL Baringo, retic, Kordofan 7.0 7.0<br />
Antwerp / BE Hybrid females 0.4 0.4<br />
Attica / GR Baringo, hybrids 4.0 4.0<br />
Blackpool / GB Hybrid females 1.3** 0.5<br />
Bratislava / SK Reticulata, baringo 3.0 3.0<br />
Bussolengo / IT Reticulata, hybrids 4.0 5.0<br />
Cabarceno / ES Baringo 6.0 6.0<br />
Cambron-Casteau / BE Hybrids 3.0 3.0<br />
Champrépus / FR Western, cape 3.0 3.0<br />
Colchester / GB Baringo, hybrids 3.0 3.0<br />
Coulange / FR Hybrids 3.0 4.0<br />
Dalton-Furness / GB Reticulata, baringo 7.0 7.0<br />
Debrecen / HU Reticulata 2.0 3.0<br />
Dresden / DE Baringo, Retic, Kordofan 2.0 3.0<br />
Ebeltoft / DK Hybrid females 0.5 0.7<br />
Falconara / IT Baringo, hybrids 2.0 3.0<br />
Gdansk / PL Hybrids, Baringo 2.0 4.0<br />
Katowice / PL Hybrids 2.0 4.0<br />
Kaunas / LT Hybrids 2.0 3.0<br />
Kessingland / GB Hybrids 0.4 0.4<br />
Knowsley / GB Hybrids 3.0 5.0<br />
Kyiv / UA Reticulata 3.0 3.0<br />
Kiriat-Motzkin / IL Cape, reticulata 1.0 3.0<br />
Lisieux / FR Peralta, cape, hybrids 4.0 5.0<br />
Ljubljana / SI Reticulata, Baringo 5.0 5.0<br />
London / GB Hybrid females 0.3 0.5<br />
Lympne / GB Hybrids 4.1*** 8.0<br />
Madrid / ES Baringo 2.0 0.0<br />
Malton / GB Hybrids 0.3 0.5<br />
Montpellier / FR No <strong>giraffe</strong>s yet 0.0 4.0<br />
Muzillac / FR Western, Baringo 2.0 8.0<br />
Neunkirchen / DE Reticulated, Baringo 3.0 3.0<br />
Peaugres / FR Hybrids 1.3* 0.5<br />
Pessac_NE / FR Hybrids 1.3** 0.3<br />
Pont-Scorff / FR Baringo, hybrids 4.0 4.0<br />
Riga / LV Hybrids 3.0 4.0<br />
Rishon Le Zion_NE / IL Cape 0.2 0.2<br />
St Aignan / FR Reticulata, baringo, hybrids 6.0 6.0<br />
Tabernas / ES Reticulata 2.0 3.0<br />
Thoiry / FR Baringo 5.0 5.0<br />
TOTAL 40 single sex groups 104.31 119.40<br />
*: male castrated<br />
**: female arrived pregnant; male offspring should leave in spring 2010<br />
***: female will leave 2009<br />
16
Future holders<br />
So far, only one current member of EAZA, Montpellier/FR, will start k<strong>eep</strong>ing <strong>giraffe</strong>s in 2009.<br />
They will start with a bachelor group of (maximum) four males.<br />
Fur<strong>the</strong>rmore several non-EAZA institutions are planning or building <strong>for</strong> <strong>giraffe</strong>s. However, as<br />
EEPs are initiated <strong>for</strong> EAZA members and as our goal is to establish a sustainable population<br />
within EAZA, it will be clear that <strong>the</strong>se non-EAZA institutions can not receive <strong>giraffe</strong>s from <strong>the</strong><br />
EAZA population <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> time being. Especially if <strong>the</strong>se institutions are situated within <strong>the</strong> EAZA<br />
region, <strong>the</strong> hybrid <strong>giraffe</strong> surplus will not be solved by sending <strong>the</strong>m to non-EAZA institution, as<br />
<strong>the</strong>se animals as well as <strong>the</strong>ir offspring, might return one day. The same happened years ago <strong>for</strong><br />
example in <strong>the</strong> black-and-white ruffed lemur EEP (Varecia v. variegata).<br />
Several EAZA members showed interest to send girafes out of <strong>the</strong> EAZA region in exchange <strong>for</strong><br />
o<strong>the</strong>r species. As <strong>the</strong> EAZA Giraffe EEP so far has had a ‘phase out’ policy <strong>for</strong> hybrids, this<br />
should be discussed with <strong>the</strong> new EAZA Giraffe Species Committee, which is elected in early<br />
2009. If we can exchange <strong>giraffe</strong>s with institutions in o<strong>the</strong>r regions <strong>for</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r EEP animals, and if<br />
<strong>the</strong>se o<strong>the</strong>r EEPs are benefiting from this, this option should be seriously considered, also because<br />
it is sure that <strong>the</strong>se <strong>giraffe</strong>s will never return in <strong>the</strong> program because of veterinary restrictions.<br />
With <strong>the</strong> new species committee <strong>the</strong>se proposals will be discussed, if at all <strong>giraffe</strong>s can be made<br />
available, and if positive, which individuals <strong>for</strong> which goal, of course in cooperation and with<br />
permission of o<strong>the</strong>r EEPs.<br />
17
Status and development of <strong>the</strong> <strong>European</strong> Studbook population<br />
Kordofan <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
In 2007 a study proved that all <strong>giraffe</strong>s in Europe <strong>for</strong>merly listed as Nigerian <strong>giraffe</strong>s (Giraffa<br />
camelopardalis peralta), were in fact Kordofan <strong>giraffe</strong>s (Giraffa camelopardalis antiquorum).<br />
There<strong>for</strong>e both subpopulations were taken toge<strong>the</strong>r in one Kordofan <strong>giraffe</strong> population, which now<br />
has a much brighter future in captivity.<br />
In 2008 <strong>the</strong> population of Kordofan <strong>giraffe</strong>s did well in Europe. No less than ten (7.3) <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
were born (1.0 DNS) and only three (2.1) died, resulting in a natural growth of 6 <strong>giraffe</strong>s (10%).<br />
Ten <strong>giraffe</strong>s (3.7) <strong>giraffe</strong>s were transported between EAZA institutions; this includes also <strong>the</strong><br />
complete group (1.4) of Antwerp Zoo, which was transported to Planckendael. Antwerp is now<br />
k<strong>eep</strong>ing a group of hybrid females. There is a lot of interest from institutions to start k<strong>eep</strong>ing this<br />
subspecies, like Dresden/DE and Montpellier/FR; both institutions will receive males <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
bachelor group.<br />
As one can see, <strong>the</strong> population is doing well and despite <strong>the</strong> low number of founders (6) <strong>the</strong><br />
prospects <strong>for</strong> this subspecies are not bad. Thanks to <strong>the</strong> fact that recently we could take toge<strong>the</strong>r<br />
two groups of <strong>giraffe</strong>s that were <strong>for</strong>merly kept separately as <strong>the</strong>y were considered different<br />
subspecies, <strong>the</strong> gene diversity can increase considerably in <strong>the</strong> future. For this a strict management<br />
on EEP-level is required. With such a management this subspecies can survive in Europe.<br />
Genetic analysis <strong>for</strong> Kordofan <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
End of End of Potential<br />
2008 2007<br />
Founders 6 6 0 additional<br />
Living descendants 67,50 61,25 -<br />
Percent Known 99,3 98,8 -<br />
Gene Diversity 0,7900 0,7900 0,8718<br />
Gene Value 0,7849 0,7851 -<br />
Founder Genome 2,38 2,38 3,90<br />
Equivalents<br />
Founder Genomes 3,90 3,89 3,90<br />
Surviving<br />
Mean Inbreeding (F) 0,1790 0,1841 -<br />
18
Cape <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
Cape <strong>giraffe</strong>s are being kept by nine participants; most of <strong>the</strong>m are, although member of EAZA, quite<br />
isolated due to <strong>the</strong> distance to o<strong>the</strong>r EAZA members and <strong>the</strong> veterinary restrictions on transporting<br />
hoofstock to o<strong>the</strong>r regions of EAZA.<br />
During 2008 a total of seven (3.3.1) <strong>giraffe</strong>s were born (1.1.1 DNS). Although <strong>the</strong> number of potential<br />
founders in <strong>the</strong> Cape <strong>giraffe</strong> population is high (<strong>the</strong> majority of <strong>the</strong> animals is still wildcaught and<br />
<strong>the</strong>re<strong>for</strong>e potential founder), <strong>the</strong> prospects <strong>for</strong> this subspecies are not good. The institutions k<strong>eep</strong>ing<br />
this subspecies are scattered throughout all edges of Europe, from Moscow to Israel, from Dubai to<br />
<strong>the</strong> French coast.<br />
In 2008, apart from <strong>the</strong> neonatal death mentioned be<strong>for</strong>e, four more <strong>giraffe</strong>s died. These <strong>giraffe</strong>s are<br />
difficult to replace. There<strong>for</strong>e it is clear that <strong>the</strong> future of this subspecies is uncertain <strong>for</strong> EAZA. There<br />
are four areas within <strong>the</strong> EAZA region where this subspecies is kept: <strong>the</strong> EU, Israel,<br />
Russia/Kazakhstan and <strong>the</strong> United Arab Emirates. All four regions can be considered as separate<br />
‘isles’ as <strong>the</strong>re are hardly possibilities to exchange <strong>giraffe</strong>s. In Israel and <strong>the</strong> UAE this subspecies has<br />
a chance to survive a few generations if <strong>the</strong> institutions within <strong>the</strong>se regions cooperate closely. Within<br />
<strong>the</strong> EU this subspecies has no chance, unless Bergamo joins <strong>the</strong> <strong>giraffe</strong> EEP and starts to cooperate<br />
closely. At this moment we do not really need <strong>the</strong> space occupied by Cape <strong>giraffe</strong>s <strong>for</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
subspecies, but this subspecies is not promoted by <strong>the</strong> Giraffe EEP.<br />
Genetic analysis <strong>for</strong> Cape <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
End of End of Potential<br />
2008 2007<br />
Founders 18 18 7 additional<br />
Living descendants 18,75 19 -<br />
Percent Known 78,1 79,30 -<br />
Gene Diversity 0,9415 0,9398 0,9770<br />
Gene Value 0,9390 0,9359 -<br />
Founder Genome 8,55 8,30 21,75<br />
Equivalents<br />
Founder Genomes 11,38 11,11 21,75<br />
Surviving<br />
Mean Inbreeding (F) 0,0000 0,0000 -<br />
19
Angolan <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
The number of participants fur<strong>the</strong>r decreased by one, as Neunkirchen lost <strong>the</strong>ir breeding male and <strong>the</strong><br />
2007 born female. Subsequently <strong>the</strong>y sent <strong>the</strong>ir two adult females back to Dortmund. Now only<br />
Dortmund/DE and Estepona/ES and Lisbon/PT are k<strong>eep</strong>ing this subspecies. In 2008 three male<br />
offspring were born at Dortmund and Lisbon, making <strong>the</strong> population a bit less fragile.<br />
Since two years Lisbon and Dortmund try to exchange males, in order to continue breeding at both<br />
locations. This exchange is delayed because of veterinary (blue tongue) problems but is now likely to<br />
take place in spring 2009.<br />
A close cooperation between <strong>the</strong> three holders is absolutely necessary not to lose this subspecies in<br />
<strong>the</strong> next five years. But even with a good cooperation between <strong>the</strong> three institutions, <strong>the</strong> prospects <strong>for</strong><br />
this subspecies are not good. Inbreeding is not high yet (7%), but will increase rapidly in <strong>the</strong> next<br />
generation. At <strong>the</strong> moment <strong>the</strong>se <strong>giraffe</strong>s are not taking spaces from o<strong>the</strong>r subspecies, but it can not be<br />
recommended to establish more breeding groups at <strong>the</strong> moment. The young males might be suitable<br />
<strong>for</strong> a bachelor group <strong>for</strong> educational purposes; surplus females should go to Estepona, to increase <strong>the</strong><br />
number of <strong>giraffe</strong>s <strong>the</strong>re.<br />
Genetic analysis <strong>for</strong> Angolan <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
End of End of Potential<br />
2008 2007<br />
Founders 5 5 0 additional<br />
Living descendants 18 17 -<br />
Percent Known 100 100 -<br />
Gene Diversity 0,8486 0,8486 0,8922<br />
Gene Value 0,8405 0,8440 -<br />
Founder Genome 3,30 3,30 4,64<br />
Equivalents<br />
Founder Genomes 4,51 4,50 4,64<br />
Surviving<br />
Mean Inbreeding (F) 0,0694 0,0588 -<br />
20
Masai <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
With only 1.4 related Masai <strong>giraffe</strong>s in two isolated sub-regions <strong>the</strong> Masai <strong>giraffe</strong> population will go<br />
extinct in <strong>the</strong> EAZA region. As far as known no Masai <strong>giraffe</strong>s are being kept in non-EAZA<br />
institutions within <strong>the</strong> region. Exchanges between Schwitzerland and Israel are unlikely because of<br />
veterinary reasons; it also does not make much sense from a genetical point of view, as <strong>the</strong> male in<br />
Kiriat-Motzkin/IL is related to <strong>the</strong> Swiss females. Both institutions are k<strong>eep</strong>ing Masai <strong>giraffe</strong>s only<br />
and by this <strong>the</strong>y will also not produce hybrids. Basel Zoo tries to import a male from <strong>the</strong> North<br />
America or Japan, but chances <strong>for</strong> this are low. The EEP is following <strong>the</strong> developments but not taking<br />
an active approach in this matter.<br />
Genetic analysis <strong>for</strong> Masai <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
End of End of Potential<br />
2008 2007<br />
Founders 3 3 0 additional<br />
Living descendants 1,91 2,56 -<br />
Percent Known 38,10 36,60 -<br />
Gene Diversity 0,5923 0,5544 0,4985<br />
Gene Value 0,5924 0,5472 -<br />
Founder Genome 1,23 1,12 1,00<br />
Equivalents<br />
Founder Genomes 1,00 1,09 1,00<br />
Surviving<br />
Mean Inbreeding (F) 0,5650 0,5626 -<br />
21
Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
In 2008 <strong>the</strong> population of Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong>s increased only by three individuals (3%), which is just<br />
<strong>the</strong> growth of <strong>the</strong> whole EEP (all subspecies including hybrids). As <strong>the</strong> hybrid population decreased,<br />
<strong>the</strong> growth in Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong>s is lower than in <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r pure subspecies. This can be declared by<br />
<strong>the</strong> high death rate in 2008; no less than 14 <strong>giraffe</strong>s died, but <strong>for</strong>tunately <strong>the</strong> majority were older<br />
males. Although <strong>the</strong> population did not grow as fast in <strong>the</strong> past year, and although <strong>the</strong> avarage<br />
inbreeding slightly increased and <strong>the</strong> gene diversity slightly decreased, this subspecies has a bright<br />
future. The number of females increased considerably, which is good <strong>for</strong> a faster growth of <strong>the</strong><br />
population.<br />
In 2008 no less than 20 (9.11) Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong>s were born in 12 institutions, double <strong>the</strong> number of<br />
2007 and <strong>the</strong> highest number of reticulated births ever. Three (2.1) neonates did not survive; this is<br />
only 15%. A total of 14 (7.7) <strong>giraffe</strong>s were moved between EEP-participants and no Reticulated<br />
<strong>giraffe</strong>s left <strong>the</strong> EEP. Fourteen (10.4) <strong>giraffe</strong>s died in 11 institutions.<br />
Of <strong>the</strong> 33 institutions currently k<strong>eep</strong>ing this subspecies, 17 are k<strong>eep</strong>ing a breeding group, 15 are<br />
k<strong>eep</strong>ing only Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong> males (ei<strong>the</strong>r in a bachelor group or with hybrid females) and one<br />
institution is k<strong>eep</strong>ing only a female Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong> without a male (a 27 year old female at St<br />
Petersburg).<br />
Genetic analysis <strong>for</strong> Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
End of End of Potential<br />
2008 2007<br />
Founders 24 23 0 additional<br />
Living descendants 117,00 112,00 -<br />
Percent Known 100,0 100,0 -<br />
Gene Diversity 0,9413 0,9418 0,9659<br />
Gene Value 0,9394 0,9404 -<br />
Founder Genome 8,51 8,59 14,66<br />
Equivalents<br />
Founder Genomes 14,66 14,12 14,66<br />
Surviving<br />
Mean Inbreeding (F) 0,0292 0,0275 -<br />
22
Baringo Giraffes<br />
This subspecies comprises <strong>the</strong> biggest group in this EEP; 41% of all <strong>giraffe</strong>s are Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong>s. The<br />
population was growing rapidly in <strong>the</strong> past years and 2008 was no exception to this. Thanks to 46<br />
births and 24 deaths <strong>the</strong> population increased by 8% (22 animals).<br />
A total of 46 (24.21.1) Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong>s were born of which 9 (5.3.1) did not survive (20%).<br />
No less than 42 (26.16) animals were moved between EEP participants; <strong>the</strong>se transports were all<br />
approved by <strong>the</strong> EEP. Sixteen (6.10) Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong>s died. All of this caused a net increase of <strong>the</strong><br />
population by 22 (13.9) <strong>giraffe</strong>s. At <strong>the</strong> end of 2008 <strong>the</strong>re were 308 (122.186) Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong>s held at<br />
72 institutions.<br />
Several institutions are still k<strong>eep</strong>ing a pure group plus some hybrid females. The first goal of <strong>the</strong><br />
Giraffe EEP goal is to send <strong>the</strong>se hybrid females to o<strong>the</strong>r places and replace <strong>the</strong>m by pure females; <strong>for</strong><br />
that reason <strong>the</strong> number of new holders of a breeding group will be restricted <strong>the</strong> coming years.<br />
The population is quite healthy, deriving from 44 founders, acquired from <strong>the</strong> wild in <strong>the</strong> early<br />
seventies. However, in those early days many Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong>s, especially in safariparks, were mixed<br />
with <strong>giraffe</strong>s of o<strong>the</strong>r subspecies; this seems to be especially <strong>the</strong> case in <strong>the</strong> United Kingdom. As a<br />
result of this, <strong>the</strong> subspecific status of several <strong>giraffe</strong>s is doubtful. The EEP has to use a conservative<br />
approach: as long as <strong>the</strong> subspecific status is not completely cleared, it is considered to be as of<br />
unknown subspecific status. In <strong>the</strong> near future this especially needs to be discussed with several<br />
institutions on <strong>the</strong> British Isles, k<strong>eep</strong>ing one or two pure Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong>s and also some hybrids.<br />
Some of <strong>the</strong>m defenitely need to do a step back, in order <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> whole EEP to fur<strong>the</strong>r evoluate. This<br />
will be <strong>the</strong> challenge <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> near future.<br />
Genetic analysis <strong>for</strong> Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
End of End of Potential<br />
2008 2007<br />
Founders 44 41 0 additional<br />
Living descendants 208,59 191,75 -<br />
Percent Known 67,70 67,80 -<br />
Gene Diversity 0,9584 0,9589 0,9783<br />
Gene Value 0,9576 0,9572 -<br />
Founder Genome 12,01 12,16 23,05<br />
Equivalents<br />
Founder Genomes 23,05 23,37 23,05<br />
Surviving<br />
Mean Inbreeding (F) 0,0390 0,0398 -<br />
23
Hybrid Giraffes and Giraffes of unknown origin<br />
The major achievement in <strong>the</strong> <strong>giraffe</strong> EEP during 2008 was without doubt <strong>the</strong> decrease in <strong>the</strong><br />
population of hybrid and unknown origin <strong>giraffe</strong>s; this decreased by no less than 11 animals (6%)!<br />
This is <strong>the</strong> result of <strong>the</strong> strategy to place as many hybrids and unknown origin <strong>giraffe</strong>s as possible<br />
outside breeding situations. In <strong>the</strong> past years <strong>the</strong> growth already slowed down and eventually also<br />
stopped, but 2008 is <strong>the</strong> year where <strong>the</strong> phasing out also can be seen in <strong>the</strong> figures.<br />
Still 28 (11.17) <strong>giraffe</strong>s were born in this category, of which eleven (4.7) did not survive (39%). A<br />
total of 22 (6.16) were moved between EAZA institutions. Four <strong>giraffe</strong>s (3.1) left <strong>the</strong> EEP. Finally 18<br />
(4.14) hybrid and unknown origin <strong>giraffe</strong>s died.<br />
It is tried to determine <strong>the</strong> subspecific status of <strong>the</strong> unknown origin <strong>giraffe</strong>s to reduce <strong>the</strong>ir number.<br />
Fur<strong>the</strong>rmore it is <strong>the</strong> goal to phase out <strong>the</strong> hybrids by reducing <strong>the</strong>ir reproduction by establishing<br />
single sex groups. In 2005 <strong>for</strong> <strong>the</strong> first time <strong>the</strong> number of hybrid and unknown origin <strong>giraffe</strong>s<br />
decreased. That could not be continued in 2006 and 2007, but <strong>the</strong> growth was in both years lower than<br />
<strong>the</strong> growth of <strong>the</strong> total population. In 2008 a net decrease was again realised. This is expected to<br />
continue and go faster in <strong>the</strong> years to come. In 2008 a lot of hybrids were placed in single sex groups<br />
in Antwerp/BE, Blackpool/GB, Dalton-in-Furness/GB, Ebeltoft/DK, Gdansk/PL, Lisieux/FR,<br />
Malton/GB, Peaugres/FR and Riga/LV and <strong>the</strong>re<strong>for</strong>e less and less of <strong>the</strong>se <strong>giraffe</strong>s are in breeding<br />
situation.<br />
As at <strong>the</strong> moment <strong>the</strong> populations of Baringo <strong>giraffe</strong>s, Reticulated <strong>giraffe</strong>s and Kordofan <strong>giraffe</strong>s are<br />
doing well and as <strong>the</strong> number of new holders is not increasing that fast anymore, we need to decrease<br />
<strong>the</strong> hybrid <strong>giraffe</strong> population as soon as possible, by removing as many hybrids as possible from a<br />
breeding situation and replace <strong>the</strong>m by pure <strong>giraffe</strong>s. It needs to be stated that <strong>the</strong> problem is a bit<br />
smaller than it seems, as several hybrid females are under birth control, like PZP.<br />
24