Promoting global knowledge of species

Did you know that Ranua Wildlife Park plays a pivotal role in creating the world’s largest and most comprehensive knowledge base on over 22,000 species? As a member of global nonprofit Species360 organization, Ranua Wildlife Park contributes data on the animals and groups in its care every day, from lifecycle traits to environmental needs.

That information is recorded in the Species360 Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS), now 50 years old and the world’s largest source of data on species.  To date, Ranua Wildlife Park has contributed data on 3,155 animals and 208 species, subspecies, and breeds to Species360 ZIMS.

ZIMS increases knowledge and insights of species requirements

ZIMS combines the data collected by zoos and other species conservation institutions from around the world. This shared knowledge enables new insights into disease treatment, animal welfare, population health, and species conservation by enhancing what is known about animals and their environments.

Ranua Wildlife Park, like other zoos and aquariums, uses ZIMS to stay well-informed about each animal in its care. ZIMS also helps veterinarians treat diseases by providing e.g. benchmarks for normal blood test results.

Database as a tool for wildlife conservation work

Additionally, ZIMS is used in conservation projects to ensure the genetic diversity and health of animal populations in human care. This is critical for reintroduction programs, where efforts are made to restore native species to their natural habitats.

One example of such a project is the WildForestReindeerLIFE project, which concluded last year. The expertise provided by Finnish zoos played a significant role in this initiative. The experience gained in caring for the wild forest reindeer, treating diseases, and understanding their specific dietary and habitat requirements helped shape the project’s practices and continues to improve the welfare of forest reindeer in other zoos that maintain them in their collections.