AZA Caprinae TAG

There are 32 species and 91 subspecies of Caprinae currently recognized by the IUCN/SSC Caprinae Specialist Group. The IUCN Red List (2018) recognizes 59 species; 16 (27%) are categorized as least concern, 17 (29%) are near threatened, 19 (32%) are vulnerable, 7 (12%) are endangered, and none as critically endangered.

The Second Edition of the AZA Caprinae TAG’s Regional Collection Plan was approved in April 2019. This RCP recognizes 39 species including 69 (with possible 8 additional) subspecies. AZA accredited zoos and additional partners have an obligation to ensure the survival of these species by providing both ex situ and in situ conservation support.

AZA Caprinae TAG Mission Statement

The mission of the Caprinae Taxon Advisory Group is to manage a select group of species representing geographic uniqueness and the best chances for ex situ long-term sustainability, so that these ex situ populations serve as ambassadors for diverse in situ wild Caprinae and their environments.

 

 About the TAG 

Goals of the AZA Caprinae TAG

The following goals are priorities for the AZA Caprinae TAG:

  • Develop strategies to promote global Caprinae conservation, awareness, understanding, and appreciation of Caprinae.

  • Monitor health and veterinary issues that impact AZA Caprinae conservation programs or wild Caprinae populations.

  • Develop and strengthen links and collaborative Caprinae conservation programs with other regions, particularly the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) Caprinae TAG and shared European Endangered Species Programmes (EEP).

  • Establish a stronger presence with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Species Survival Commission (SSC) Caprinae Specialist Group (CSG).  Increase connections between stakeholders and specialists on Caprinae conservation.

  • Develop partnerships in the establishment of additional and sustainable USDA embarkation quarantine(s) to provide avenues and support for the continued importation of non-native ruminants to augment and sustain ex situ Caprinae programs.

  • Further develop cooperative Caprinae management programs between AZA institutions and non-AZA facilities.

 TAG Leadership

The AZA Caprinae TAG leadership group consists of a Chair, Vice-Chair and Steering Committee (SC) members.  One of the elected SC members also serves as Secretary.  Additional advisors lend their expertise to aspects of Caprinae management.

Appointed Steering Committee

Gil Myers, Smithsonian National Zoo: TAG Chair
VACANT: Vice Chair

Elected Steering Committee Members

Tim Thier, Saint Louis Zoo (Secretary)
Ashley Arimborgo, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Dan Beetem, The Wilds
Dawn Petefish, Peoria Zoo
Jim Haigwood, San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Joshua Sisk, Potawotami Zoo
Molly Shea, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
Steve Castillo, Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Advisors

Erin Kendrick, Smithsonian National Zoo: Nutrition
Budhan Pukazhenthi, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute: Reproductive Advisor
John Newby, Sahara Conservation Fund: Aoudad
Jeff Holland, CCTU: Field Conservation and Husbandry
Dan Beetem, The Wilds: WCMC Liaison
Andrea Putnam, San Diego Zoo Global: Population Biologist Advisor
VACANT: Veterinary Advisor
VACANT: Education Advisor