EAZA and SDF Press Statement - Ölands Djurpark
The European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and the Swedish Association of Zoos and Aquaria (SDF) are aware of recent allegations made in the Swedish media regarding Ölands Djurpark and have undertaken a joint screening of the institution on 10-11 Dec 2012. The screening team, consisting of a senior zoo professional from an EAZA member of good standing, a coordinator from the EAZA Executive Office, and representatives of SDF, assessed Ölands Djurpark according to the standards of both associations. The screening team will compile a report of their findings. The screening team received the full cooperation of zoo staff during the screening mission.
EAZA and SDF member institutions are bound to abide by codes and standards including codes of practice and ethics, and minimum standards for the accommodation and care of animals. New members undergo a comprehensive screening process prior to approval of their membership, and existing members are screened on a cyclical basis to ensure these standards are maintained.
The report of the screening team will be discussed by the EAZA Membership and Ethics Committee and EAZA’s Executive Committee. The national representatives will present a separate report to the board of SDF. Further action will be taken based upon the conclusions of the screening reports.[MS1]
For further information contact:
Michael Sullivan
Communications and Membership Manager, EAZA
Email: michael.sullivan@eaza.net
Phone: +31 20 520 0750
Mats Höggren
Screening coordinator, SDF
Email: mats.hoggren@kolmarden.com
Phone: +47 70 558 2796
About EAZA:
EAZA has over 345 members in 41 countries and represents the leading zoos and aquariums of Europe and the Middle East. EAZA zoos and aquariums are found in 25 of the 27 EU member States (www.eaza.net).
Formed in 1992, EAZA’s mission is to facilitate cooperation within the European zoo and aquarium community towards the goals of education, research and conservation.
About SDF:
SDF has 20 full member institutions and six associate members and represents the leading zoos and aquariums of Sweden. SDF is in turn associate member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquaria (WAZA) (www.svenska-djurparksforeningen.nu).
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