Captive Galliformes
AZA Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs)
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs) serve as critical strategic planning and conservation coordination bodies for specific animal taxonomic groups within accredited zoological institutions. These groups are responsible for developing comprehensive species conservation and management plans, providing expert guidance on breeding programs, population management, and research priorities for their designated taxonomic groups. TAGs conduct thorough population assessments, create regional studbooks, develop species survival plans, and make recommendations about which species should be maintained in zoo collections to support both conservation education and genetic diversity. They play a crucial role in connecting zoo-based conservation efforts with field conservation initiatives, facilitating international collaboration among zoological institutions, and ensuring that captive populations are managed with scientific rigor and a focus on long-term species preservation. By bringing together veterinarians, curators, researchers, and conservation specialists, TAGs help coordinate systematic approaches to ex situ conservation, genetic management, and public education about threatened and endangered species.
European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA)
The European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) is a professional organization dedicated to promoting excellence in zoo and aquarium management, conservation, education, and research across Europe. Established as a collaborative network, EAZA coordinates comprehensive conservation breeding programs through its European Endangered Species Programmes (EEP) and European Studbooks, which aim to maintain genetically diverse and sustainable populations of threatened species in captivity. The organization serves as a critical platform for knowledge exchange, setting professional standards, and developing coordinated conservation strategies among its member institutions. EAZA works to enhance the scientific understanding of animal care, supports field conservation projects worldwide, and develops educational programs that raise public awareness about biodiversity conservation. By facilitating cooperation among over 400 member institutions across more than 40 countries, EAZA plays a pivotal role in supporting global biodiversity conservation efforts, promoting animal welfare, and advancing the collective capabilities of European zoos and aquariums to contribute meaningfully to wildlife protection and environmental education.