02
4
d l r o W ife l d l i W ay D M 2 A R C H 3,
2024 Theme: Global Cooperation in Wildlife Care Celebrating World Wildlife Day with a story of international collaboration and dedicated care At Roger Williams Park Zoo, protecting wildlife and wild places isn’t just a mission statement - it’s the beating heart of our community. Every day, our dedicated staff and passionate volunteers pour their hearts into protecting threatened and endangered species locally and globally. World Wildlife Day, celebrated annually on March 3rd, is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the incredible diversity of life on our planet. This year, we are especially proud to shine a spotlight on the inspiring work of our elephant zookeeper, Brett Haskins, and his recent contribution to elephant conservation efforts in Nepal.
Elephant Health Camp:
A Valuable Program for Endangered Elephants and People This past fall, thanks to the generous support of the Katie
Brett’s dedication and expertise resonated deeply with the
Adamson Conservation Fund, Brett embarked on a two-
Nepali community, who often face limitations in resources
week journey to volunteer at the National Trust for Nature
and access to specialized knowledge. His hands-on
Conservancy’s (NTNC) Elephant Health Camp in Nepal.
training empowered them with the skills and confidence
This vital program provides specialized care for nearly 100
to provide their elephants with the best possible foot
endangered Asian elephants, a species facing numerous
care, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and
threats to its survival.
longevity.
Joining forces with fellow elephant experts from NTNC,
The Elephant Health Camp is more than just a medical
McClure International Consulting, Elephant Care
facility; it’s a beacon of hope for the future of Asian
International, and Elephant Aid International, Brett shared
elephants in Nepal. By providing essential care, raising
his expertise in elephant foot care. This seemingly simple
awareness, and fostering international collaboration, the
aspect of elephant well-being is crucial to their overall
camp plays a vital role in securing the survival of this
health and happiness.
endangered species for generations to come.
Elephants, the largest land animals on Earth, rely heavily
Brett’s journey to Nepal is a testament to the power
on their feet to support their immense weight and
of individual action and the transformative impact
navigate diverse terrains. However, their feet are also
of international collaboration in the fight for wildlife
highly sensitive and susceptible to infections and injuries
conservation. On this World Wildlife Day, let us all be
if not properly maintained. Regular foot care, as Brett
inspired by his dedication and commitment to playing our
meticulously demonstrated to mahouts (elephant handlers)
part, however big or small, in protecting the wonders of our
and owners at the camp, can help prevent problems,
shared planet.
detect issues early, and ensure a lifetime of mobility and comfort for these gentle giants. 5
