Using longitudinal data analysis to inform conservation management

Chester Zoo has a dedicated Science Department working towards a mission to Prevent Extinction. Through strong collaborative partnerships, robust scientific evidence and effective dissemination of research findings we inform best practice and support conservation activities. We work with individual animals and wider captive populations across Europe to inform management decisions and work in six key geographical regions to inform conservation actions for a range of endangered species. We also play a pivotal role in measuring the educational impact of zoos and aquariums across the world. In this series of talks our four Lead Conservation Scientists will present case studies from their research areas to demonstrate how Chester Zoo use longitudinal data to inform conservation management of species in both ex-situ and in-situ conditions and demonstrate educational impact of zoos globally.

14.00-14.25

Dr Lisa Holmes – Lead Conservation Scientist: Behaviour & Welfare:

Brief introduction to the Science Department at Chester Zoo followed by main talk:“Longitudinal data analysis to inform animal welfare” 

Using a number of case studies I will share how behaviour and physiology data can be used to inform evidence-based management decisions and the challenges of working with small sample sizes for statistical analysis. 

14.25-14.50

Dr Katie Edwards – Lead Conservation Scientist: Biomarker Research & Development:

“Looking for patterns in poo: how longitudinal hormone data can help inform conservation breeding programmes” 

I’ll discuss a few case studies to show how non-invasive hormone analysis allows us to assess the physiology of wildlife to better understand and provide for reproduction, health and well-being, but can also bring challenges when working with data.

14.50-15.10 Tea/Coffee

15.10-15.35

Dr Simon Tollington – Lead Conservation Scientist: Population Health and Ecological Monitoring:

“Using datasets from long-term monitoring programmes to inform conservation management”

A case study from Mauritius detailing the recovery of the once critically endangered Mauritius parakeet, how its ongoing recovery is being aided by detailed monitoring data and implications for other threatened species.

15.35-16.00

Dr Andy Moss – Lead Conservation Scientist: Social Science:

TBC

ALL ARE WELCOME 

Please register for this event here