Behind-the-scenes of animal transfers

As we settle into the cooler temperatures of autumn, many things are changing around the Zoo. Leaves are changing colors (Does anyone else have a favorite tree at the Zoo?), heat sources are being added to animal habitats, and both native and Zoo animals are on the move. Some species at the Zoo move inside for the cooler months, while others transfer to entirely new homes at other AZA or conservation partner facilities. Transfers are often at the recommendation of Species Survival Plan® (SSP) programs, which monitor and manage populations of endangered species with goals of maintaining genetic and demographic diversity. In celebration of the opening of The Rollins Animal Health Center last month, I want to take a deeper dive into the veterinary aspects of animal transfers. 

As mentioned in some previous conservation blogs about Guatemalan beaded lizards and giant pandas, transferring animals from one facility to another is a complex process that involves weeks, if not months and sometimes even years, of planning and preparation. Even “simple” transfers (for example, a non-threatened species not crossing state lines) require internal coordination between multiple teams across the Zoo and external coordination with other facilities involved in the transfer. The Veterinary Team works closely with many people involved in the process. 

Any time an animal moves from one home to another, it makes sense that the receiving facility would want to have at least a general idea of the individual’s health. That’s why the Vet Team performs exams on any individuals preparing to depart Zoo Atlanta. These look a bit like the annual physical exams people have – the animals are weighed, measurements taken, and basic life functions (breathing and heart rate) observed. Conducting these exams requires coordinating with Animal Care Teams. In some cases, animals can participate in their own exams through positive-reinforcement training. Other times, animals may need to be anesthetized for safety. But a general exam is just the baseline. Depending on the species and its destination, additional exams, testing, or vaccinations may be required or recommended. 

When transferring animals across state lines, we consult the Area Veterinarian in Charge (designated by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) to confirm requirements for exams, testing, vaccinations, documentation, and submission method/timing of the animal’s Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (also known as a “Health Certificate”). For animals crossing international borders, the governing authority in charge of animal importation determines medical requirements for import.  These requirements sometimes have tight timelines (for example, an exam must be completed or test administered within 72 hours of the transfer), so unforeseen circumstances can significantly disrupt the process. Additionally, some SSP programs will also recommend certain tests or exams to be completed. 

These processes often occur simultaneously with other preparations. Many people across the Zoo collaborate to ensure that all requirements implemented and enforced by a bevy of regulatory agencies – not to mention the unique needs of the individual animal(s) – are met before, during, and after animal transfers. It’s a highly involved process that might come as a surprise to those just starting to learn about the behind-the-scenes workings of modern, AZA-accredited zoos. Whether animals move to another AZA facility or are released into a natural environment to boost wild populations, veterinary care is essential to monitor and maintain the health of animal populations around the world. 

Sarah Hamilton
Interpretive Engagement Specialist