Birds are the most speciose of all taxonomic groups currently housed in zoos, but this
species diversity is not always matched by their inclusion in research output in the peer-reviewed
literature. This large and diverse captive population is an excellent tool for research investigation,
the findings of which can be relevant to ...
Birds are the most speciose of all taxonomic groups currently housed in zoos, but this
species diversity is not always matched by their inclusion in research output in the peer-reviewed
literature. This large and diverse captive population is an excellent tool for research investigation,
the findings of which can be relevant to conservation and population sustainability aims. The One
Plan Approach to conservation aims to foster tangible conservation relevance of ex situ populations
to those animals living in situ. The use of birds in zoo aviculture as proxies for wild-dwelling
counterparts is considered from this integrated conservation approach. This paper considers the
relevance of ex situ bird populations to field-based conservation action and it illustrates how “added
value” to captive populations can be gained from their inclusion in conservation efforts. Current
trends in scientific publications that focus on birds are provided to identify patterns in species focus
and identification of areas of study that could be relevant to advancing avicultural practices, bird
husbandry standards, animal welfare and conservation relevance of such populations. Research
into wild birds is extremely useful for furthering how birds are managed in zoological collections.
Collaboration between field-based projects that have involved zoo professionals are reviewed, to
showcase information transfer from the field to the zoo and vice versa, and the ultimate benefits
to aviculture and the added value that can be brought to zoo bird populations. Suggested ideas
for research into specific areas of ex situ population management and conservation, and avicultural
practices are provided to guide future researchers in their endeavors to ensure we have the evidence
needed to care for and conserve birds as appropriately and as viably as possible.