November 4, 2009 08:39 by
AlanIt’s census time for Live Exhibits which means going through our entire animal collection and counting the numbers we have, and in most cases a breakdown of the sexes of each species. This information is a valuable part of our collection management, aiding us to plan our breeding requirements, acquisitions and disposals for the year ahead. The figures are also submitted to the zoological organisation ARAZPA, to be included in their Regional Census and Plan alongside data from zoos and other professional animal keeping facilities throughout Australasia. This enables cooperative breeding and animal exchange to take place between member institutions.
Quick stats for Live Exhibits (2008/9)
Total number of animal species held: 193
Total number of individual animals: 2738
Reptile species: 19
Amphibian species: 6
Invertebrate species: 148
Fish species: 15
Bird species: 5
Some animals aren’t counted during the census, and are happily put into the too hard basket! Ants for example are counted as 1 colony, not as individuals. We currently maintain 8 colonies of ants, comprising 7 different species.
These grasshoppers represent 1 species, 68 individuals (4 males 2 females and 62 juveniles) Photo Alan Henderson, Source Museum Victoria
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