Lincoln Park Zoo

Species Survival Programs (SSP) and Population Management Plans (PMP) are key tools for members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and related institutions to maintain and monitor self-sufficient animal populations in captivity. SSP’s and PMP’s ensure the survival of future generations of animals housed in zoos and aquaria through breeding recommendations for captive populations, and guarantee genetic diversity and health in the offspring of these populations. This project will conduct a retrospective analysis of the SSP and PMP to assess their appropriateness and effectiveness. The Lincoln Park Zoo will research past recommendations, plot the individual patterns in these plans that assure population success, and make recommendations to improve future SSP/PMP procedures.