The Economics of Everyday Things 68. Zoo Animals
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Oct 28, 2024 Dwight Lawson is the Executive Director and CEO of the Oklahoma City Zoo, while Hollie Colahan serves as Deputy Director of the Birmingham Zoo and chairs the AZA's Animal Population Management Committee. They dive into the fascinating dynamics of animal acquisition in zoos, explaining how cooperation among institutions ensures genetic diversity and responsible sourcing of species. The conversation also touches on the financial and ethical challenges modern zoos face, revealing their critical role in wildlife conservation and the personal connections they foster between animals and visitors.
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Penguin Procurement
- Oklahoma City Zoo needed penguins for a new habitat.
- They contacted the penguin population coordinator, who helps zoos exchange animals.
Zoo Animal Exchange
- Zoos operate on a communal system, not a tit-for-tat exchange.
- They prioritize the overall animal population's well-being.
Elephant Transport
- Transporting an elephant involves a large crate and training.
- A crane is needed to load the crate onto a truck.