Bird Garden Research

Scientific research is an important part of the work of modern zoos.

One of the most important but generally hidden areas of work in the Bird Garden is research; projects are managed by the Bird Garden Curator and Research Officer, and are carried out by staff and University students, on several important conservation bird species, such as the Humboldt Penguins, Waldrapp Ibis, Chilean Flamingos or Ross’s Snow Geese.

Undergraduate or post-graduate students from several Universities either undertake research projects or do short and long term work placements. The results benefit the birds at Harewood and also in other collections. Biologists and Zoologists working at Harewood have been able to uncover and note all kinds of useful information that has advanced our understanding of birds and our future conservation work.

Research work helps us improve the management of birds in the garden, by removing stress, enriching their environment and managing reproduction and diets.

 

As a direct result of our research work, we have implemented changes in the way we look after our birds:

• A change in the Waldrapp Ibis feeding regime has resulted in the breeding and survival of 4 chicks in 2008 and 7 chicks in 2009, after a gap in breeding of several years.

• Habitat and enrichment changes in the Chilean Flamingo enclosure have meant the Flamingos have hatched a chick after a gap of 20 years.

• Diet enrichment has been implemented with our Red Crested Touracos, who as part of the European Breeding Programme have hatched many chicks consistently over several years.

Ultimately, research in zoos and aquariums is driven and governed by one main goal; to gather knowledge that benefits the conservation of threatened species through welfare, education and a good day out.

Read about our Research Projects. You can contact the Bird Garden with any specific enquiries relating to Student Placements or Work Experience using our online contact form.