1988—2013

Annual Report

Nordens ArkNordens Ark lies on Åby manor beside the Åby fjord, 20 km from Smögen and Kungshamn on route 171, about 120 km north of Gothenburg. The manor was mentioned as early as the 1300s, but rock carvings and ancient remains show that the farm has roots much further back. The present buildings date mainly from the 1700s and 1800s. Nordens Ark Foundation is a non-profit foundation which is responsible for Nordens Ark. Nordens Ark Foundation owns Åby manor, which covers 400 hectares. Through its activities, Nordens Ark Foundation seeks to promote biological diversity principally by:•• contributing to the conservation of endangered species by controlled

breeding, and supporting wild animal populations in their natural habitats through various support measures.

•• conducting research and studies of the animals at the park, contributing to an increased understanding of animals and promoting animal survival in the wild.

•• acting as an educational resource at all levels from pre-school to colleges and universities.

•• being accessible to the public, thereby increasing public interest in and knowledge of conservation work.

Nordens Ark’s lands extend over 400 hectares.Aerial photo of Åby manor.

“ For the past 25 years, Nordens Ark has worked wisely and determinedlyfor the good of animals and has

achieved astonishing results. I am proudthat, as the Ark’s patron, I have been able to follow this valuable work with endangered animals, and I look forward to continuing to do so.”

H.R.H. CROWN PRINCESS VICTORIA is Nordens Ark’s patron.

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Nordens Ark Hotel

Åby Manor

Care centre

Åby fjord

The Farm

The Ecopark

Wetlands

Zoological Park

Rock carvings

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25 years with NORDENS ARKContentsAnniversary: Twenty-five years with Nordens Ark •• 1 Highlights 1988–2012 •• 4The year that’s gone – a review •• 28Development of Wolverine EEP 2013 •• 33

Annual Report 2013Administration Report •• 36Income Statement •• 39Balance Sheet •• 40Cash Flow Analysis •• 41Accounting and Valuation Principles •• 42Audit Report •• 46Board of Directors, Auditors and Staff 2013 •• 48

Purchase of Åby manor

View of the entrance to Åby manor 1988.

Our Annual Reports have over the years become much appreciated and informative publications.

1992 2000 2007 2010 2012

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An Amur leopard is examined in the new veterinary clinic, 2005.

Research college in the newly built auditorium at Annedal, 2003.

An armful of newly hatched peregrine falcons.

Nordens Ark Hotel opens

Annedal is for staff, veterinarians and trainingConstruction of the Farm

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TurnoverMillion kronor

Mammals

Birds

Native breeds

Reptiles

1 Fish2 Insects

StaffNumber of employees

VisitorsAnnual total

How Nordens Ark developed — in numbersThe business has expanded in every way since it began in 1988 — except in the number of visitors, which has remained at about 100,000 a year. Our activities are 50 per cent funded through donations, gifts, funds, sponsors, bequests and adoptions. Twenty-five per cent of the remaining funding comes from admission charges, education, forestry and agriculture, and 25 per cent from the hotel’s shop and restaurant.

Acquisitions and construction

Animal collection, number of species

Amphibians

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55

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Animal keepers cut up meat for the predators in the feed kitchen.

Unveiling of the standing stone at the entrance, 2009.

Group guided tours are an important part of our activities.

Inauguration of the Wetlands, 2008.

The standing stone at the roundabout

Tiger house

Wetlands house

25 years with Nordens ArkOn an autumn evening in 1996, I was sitting in a van heading south from Gdansk on Poland’s Baltic coast. We were on our way to Kampinoski National Park just outside Warsaw. In the back of the van were three lynxes in transport cages. They were the first mammals to leave Nordens Ark for a life of freedom – a major event for me.

Over the years we have delivered more lynxes to Kampinoski, and today they have a small but viable population of lynxes in Kampinoski. Even Lithuania has received lynxes from Nordens Ark. We have also released 24 European wildcats in Germany, more than 100 lesser white-fronted geese in Norway and Sweden, 170 peregrine falcons in central Sweden and almost 15,000 green toads in various parts of southern Sweden. Among others.

When it comes to summing up Nordens Ark’s first quarter-century, there are no figures that are more important than these.

I remember every minute of that June day in 1989 when King Carl XVI Gustaf flew in by helicopter to inaugurate the park. We could have done with the helicopter when we went off into the park to look for the animals, because on foot we saw almost nothing. The enclosures were huge and full of lush foliage, and the animals hadn’t yet settled into their new environments. They stayed out of sight. To be honest, there weren’t that many of them. Our main feature, the snow

Nordens Ark − a part of Åby manor’s long history

1683 Margareta Hvitfeldt bequeaths the manor for the benefit of young boys wishing to study at Gothenburg grammar school. The foundations were laid for Hvitfeldtska scholarship institution which would later become Hvitfeldtska upper secondary school.

1729 Åby manor house is built.

1975 Åby manor is sold to Gothenburg and Bohus County Agricultural Society, which re-equips the farm and demolishes some of the older buildings such as a pigsty and a barn near the entrance. The farm is listed as of historical interest. The Agricultural Society takes on a foreman and a tenant farmer to look after the grounds. On parts of the land, so-called ‘experimental gardens’ are established.

1986 The Agricultural Society looks into ways of expanding the manor’s activities. Pege Schelander, from Bosam municipal association, and Hans-Ove Larsson from Skansen propose setting up a facility to save and preserve endangered animals, modelled on Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust.

1987 A working group is formed with representatives from the Agricultural Society, Bosam and Sotenäs municipality, as well as Hans-Ove Larsson. Lena M Lindén is engaged by Bosam, funded by Bohus county council, to investigate the feasibility of the project.

Åby manor house contains many treasures, such as this wallpaper with a Chinese theme from 1779. Above a bottle of medicine from the drugstore of Håby. pictures tom svensson

Lena M Lindén, MD

leopard, was so invisible that I became a little anxious. “King attacked by escaped leopard” wasn’t exactly the headline I had in mind for the big day! That didn’t happen, of course. But the early years were to prove challenging. We didn’t call ourselves a zoo, because we didn’t want to disappoint our visitors. We were aware that we couldn’t offer the same experiences as the great zoos elsewhere. Still, many visitors were disappointed. There were far fewer than we hoped for, and that, of course, led to financial troubles.

I’m happy and proud that, despite all the difficulties, we kept steadfastly to the Foundation’s guiding principle – working to save and protect endangered animals. The breakthrough did eventually come.

Today, I believe that everyone who visits Nordens Ark is rewarded with thrilling animal encounters. Yet things are pretty much as they were on that inauguration day. The best of what we do is not something you can see. It happens away from the enclosures, often far from Nordens Ark.

Offspring from our lynxes roam free in Poland. In Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, we finance fieldwork that is providing a unique insight into the life of the snow leopard – knowledge that is vital if we are to halt the species’ decline. In the Russian Far East, we are working with the WWF to improve conditions for the world’s largest feline, the Amur tiger (also known as the Siberian tiger). By training and equipping rangers, we have helped to reduce poaching of tiger prey in the

Lesser white-fronted gooseEurasian eagle-owl

Peregrine falconWhite-backed woodpecker

Longhorn beetle

White stork

European Otter

European catfish

Fire-bellied toad

Snow leopard

Amur tiger

Greater capricorn beetle

Green toad

Milos viper

Euopean Lynx

European wildcat Taurus frog

Åbyhällen at Nordens Ark lies on a sloping rock face and encompasses more than 100 rock carvings depicting animals, boats, people and cup marks, as well as animal tracks thought to be the paw prints of wolves. picture tom svensson

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Nordens Ark on the world stageWith its worldwide network of contacts, Nordens Ark is involved in projects for reinforcement, conservation, breeding, rearing and releasing into the wild, with the aim of protecting or strengthening biological diversity both in Sweden and overseas. In short, we champion biodiversity. Some of the species we are helping are shown here.

region, which in just a few years has resulted in tiger numbers increasing. Out on the Sotenäs peninsula, not so far from Nordens Ark, we’re working to re-establish rock pools where the threatened natterjack toad spawns. We don’t breed natterjack toads at Nordens Ark, and if our efforts in the field prove successful, perhaps that will never be necessary. If so, that would be another step in the right direction.

Nordens Ark has a visionThis was set out clearly for the first time in 1989 and has three objectives.

Firstly, our animal husbandry must be of the highest possible standard and an example to others.

Secondly, our aim is to make a significant contribution to a species’ conservation. Thirdly, we will work actively to create conditions to enable species to survive in their natural habitat. Only if we can meet these three imperatives will we work with a particular species. The third objective is probably the toughest, because we are at the mercy of inflexible political factors.

This intension to keep only endangered species in need for help has led us to phase out some of our species. One example is the Rocky Mountain goat, which has a thriving population in the mountains of North America and therefore doesn’t need to be kept captive for breeding purposes. More importantly, our vision has guided our work with other species. We are committing more and more of our energy and resources to what is happening, and what must happen, away from our enclosures, out in nature. Our animal collection will continue to develop, with an ever stronger focus on species whose future we can help to safeguard in some way.

Much remains to be done before this vision can come fully to fruition. Yet when I look back on the journey we have made since 1989, I can claim with confidence that we have chosen the right way to proceed. Nordens Ark is sailing in the right direction. We’re shipshape,

we have an enthusiastic crew and we’re holding fast to our course!

As I near the end of my tenure as captain of Nordens Ark, I find there are countless people I must thank: for all the joyous acclamations, for all the purses that have generously been opened, for Nordens Ark’s crew and directors who have placed such faith in me. Without your magnificent efforts and selfless dedication, Nordens Ark would have had far less wind in its sails, far fewer animals on its decks. I owe you all my warm, heartfelt thanks.

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••Bohus Breeding Centre Foundation was created by 49 private individuals, mostly friends and relatives of the working group. Founding capital amounted to 24,500 kronor. This newly created foundation borrowed 13 million kronor to set up a facility on the 126 hectares covered by the 25-year lease. Construction comprised a closed breeding section of 30 hectares and a public area of about the same size. Building began in August.

•• Offices were opened in one of the wings in November. The staff were Lena M Lindén as MD, Anna Jonsell as her assistant and Christer Larsson responsible for the animals.

1989 •• A busy spring planning for an

inauguration on June 14. Some 20 species were procured and Leif Blomqvist was taken on as zoologist and head of the animal collection.

••Construction of a café in the manor house and a shop in the other wing.

•• Formal inauguration by King Carl XVI Gustaf on June 14, with Crown Princess Victoria appointed Nordens Ark’s patron.

1988

••Park closes for the season at the end of August (the only year we have been closed for the winter).

1990 •• Public area is supplemented with

activities for children. Oss djur emellan (Among the Animals) lets children compare their skills with those of the animals.

••Otters and mountain goats join the animal collection.

••Nordens Ark is named Sweden’s best zoo by Land (Country) magazine.

1991 •• Maned wolf cubs and two snow

leopard cubs. Dalls sheep and Tadjik markhor arrive as new species in the public area.

Nordens Ark joins the Skåne stork project and collects its first white storks from Poland.picture leif blomqvist

•• Nordens Ark joins restocking projects for the lesser white-fronted goose, Eurasian eagle-owl and white stork.

•• Visit by Prime Minister Ingvar Carlsson during his nationwide tour.

1992 •• In a collaboration with Stockholm

University and the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, Arctic foxes are captured in an attempt to save and secure the wild population. A pair of wild-caught Arctic fox cubs are housed in the public enclosures at Nordens Ark.

•• 153 school classes and 11 teacher colleges visit the park.

••Native Breeds Weekend is arranged under the leadership of Nils Dahlbeck.

•• Agriculture Committee study visit.

••Nordens Ark wins Centre Party’s Major Environmental Award.

•• MD takes part in the first international conference, held in Jersey. Nordens Ark joins EAZA.

MD Lena M Lindén with project leader Christer Larsson (standing on the rock) and zoologist Leif Blomqvist. For many years, the puffin by the park entrance was the symbol of Nordens Ark, but it was replaced by a standing stone in 2009.

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1993••Nordiska Vargskogen (Nordic Wolf

Forest) inaugurated with a visit by the WWF’s board of directors and trustees under His Majesty the King’s leadership.

••The snow leopards have quadruplets and the park welcomes a record number of visitors. TV programme Hur gör djur (How Animals Do It) makes a donation to Nordens Ark.

•• First school camps.

••Nordens Ark receives a one-off government grant of six million kronor under the Rio Convention for our work in preserving biodiversity.

The yellow-headed day gecko is native to the rainforests of Madagascar. It has its own European studbook (ESB), co-ordinated from Bristol Zoo.picture kristofer försäter

Snow leopard quadruplets born in 1995.

Pelle Karlsson takes charge at Nordens Ark’s first camp school in 1993. Today, there are camp schools for all primary and secondary school levels, as well as for children with special needs.picture christer larsson

••Aid association presents a gift of 500,000 kronor.

1994 •• Fifth anniversary is celebrated as

Hans Alfredsson initiates work on a new snow leopard enclosure by drilling into rock.

••A foal for Przewalski’s wild horses.

••Nordens Ark zoologist Leif Blomqvist establishes an EEP programme for wolverines. Today, Nordens Ark has seven EEP species.

••MD Lena M Lindén elected to IUDZG (International Union of Zoo Directors of Zoological Gardens) and nominated by Swedish Association of Zoos and Aquaria as representative on EAZA council.

1995 ••Release of three Nordens Ark

lynx cubs in Poland’s Kampinoski National Park. Our work with the green toad, together with the University of Gothenburg, intensifies.

••Quadruplets for snow leopards — again!

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1996••The white-backed woodpecker

breeding project gets off the ground at Nordens Ark.

••Bingolotto Återvinsten gives Nordens Ark three million kronor.

•• Nordens Ark Foundation purchases Åby manor from Gothenburg and Bohus County Agricultural Society, gaining access to 383 hectares of land.

•• Collaboration with Gothenburg and Bohus county administrative board begins. In the spring, a flock of Gotland ewes is taken to Lindö nature reserve to graze during the summer.

1997 ••Restockings of lesser white-

fronted geese born at Nordens Ark, under the auspices of the Swedish Association for Hunting and Wildlife Management.

•• Comprehensive restockings of green toads.

••Sweden’s first denomination-free postage stamps are launched with animal motifs from Nordens Ark.

••Vattenfall donates an electric vehicle, and Saab provides an estate car.

1998 •• First offspring for European

wildcats and wolverines. Maned wolves, otters and red pandas also give birth.

•• 1,000 green toads and garlic toads reintroduced into the wild.

•• First summer camp for children.

•• Construction of the Farm begins. Swedish Road Administration builds a roundabout and a pedestrian tunnel under the main road outside the park.

•• Crafts exhibition in the granary next to the manor house.

••Change of name to Nordens Ark Foundation.

White-backed woodpeckerLeif Blomqvist

Breeding centre inaugurated in 1996 A breeding centre for the white-backed woodpecker was built at Nordens Ark in the mid-1990s. The facility began work in 1996 and has since been extended with new enclosures, several of them located in the public area of the park.

Due to the small number of these birds in Sweden, it was decided to establish a breeding population with wild-born chicks taken from nests in Norway and Lithuania, where the white-backed woodpecker is more common than in Sweden. The first youngsters arrived from Norway during 1995 and 1996. To date, more than a hundred white-backed woodpecker chicks have come to Nordens Ark, where they are hand-fed until fledged. Some of them have remained at Nordens Ark as breeding birds, while others have been released in suitable locations in Värmland and in the Nedre Dalälven area.

It was eight years before the first successful hatching took place at Nordens Ark. The number has increased slowly since then. Of 87 chicks born at Nordens Ark, 82 per cent have been released to support the small population that remains in Sweden. As every individual released from Nordens Ark was ring-marked, we know that some of them have bred in the wild.

Action plan for the white-backed woodpeckerTo stop the white-backed woodpecker disappearing completely from Sweden’s fauna, the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation (SSNC) established an Action plan for the species in 2005. The plan includes proposals for the restoration of forest environments by increasing the proportion of deciduous trees, and also for creating new forest environments rich in deciduous trees where the woodpeckers can thrive. The programme is not only an Action plan for the white-backed woodpecker, but also a means to protect a host of other threatened species with similar distributions and habitat demands. It is thought that more than 200 other red-listed species

Mating of captive white-backed woodpeckers. The male has a red crown, the female’s is black. (1) Both parents participate in rearing the young. The average number of chicks in the 35 broods born at Nordens Ark is 2.4, the same as for wild-born birds in Norway. (2)pictures tom svensson

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Hand-feeding woodpecker chicks is a demanding business. The young birds are fed every two hours from 7am until 8pm. picture tom svensson

White-backed woodpeckers prefer old, mixed forests with a large amount of dead and dying broad-leafed trees.picture kristoffer stighäll

are also benefitting from the plan. The programme also includes a proposal for the rearing of woodpecker chicks in captivity, followed by restockings. Nordens Ark currently has responsibility for captive breeding and rearing.

The cause of decline: an acute biotope shortage The white-backed woodpecker was once found in large areas of Sweden. The population has been decimated, with just a few individuals remaining, and the species is red-listed as Critically Endangered in the Swedish fauna. The white-backed woodpecker lives in large, interconnected forests where there are plenty of old and dead trees. In the past century, the species has suffered a dramatic decline as a result of a systematic depletion of Sweden’s forests, where broad-leafed and mixed woodland has all but disappeared. The SSNC has consequently declared almost all of Sweden a desert for the white-backed woodpecker. In Finland, where the species has increased in number in recent years, the proportion of deciduous forests and dead wood is almost twice as great as in the birds’ Swedish heartland.

Number of birthsNumber released

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White-backed woodpecker, 1996–2013

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1999

Tenth anniversary – inauguration of the Farm.

••Three otter litters – a record!

••690 green toads released in Skåne in collaboration with the county administrative board.

•• Seven European wildcats born at Nordens Ark are released into the wild in southern Germany.

•• Four lynxes are sent to Kampinoski National Park in Poland to be released.

••Three red panda cubs.

••Nordens Ark’s patron, Crown Princess Victoria, inaugurates the Farm with 2,000 square metres of new and long-awaited stalls for native breeds.

The FarmMats Niklasson

Inauguration of the FarmThe opening of the Farm in 1999 was an important milestone in the Nordens Ark story. Designed by architect Tomas Rossing with a bold, Norse-inspired theme, it has become a landmark on one of the region’s main roads. The Farm also represented a very visible expansion of our activities away from the original park. Now Nordens Ark had two distinct parts – the Wild section and the Farm.

The essential idea behind the Farm was and is to preserve and showcase endangered Nordic breeds. Conservation of native breeds is both like and unlike conservation work with wild animal species. First and foremost it is the breeds you are trying to preserve, not the original species itself. In many cases the number of founders is very low, as they often come from a single remaining group of a handful of individuals. Native breeds can be red-listed in the same way as other animals, and many are critically endangered. Sadly, a lot of native breeds died out long before efforts to save them began 50 to 100 years ago.

Importance of voluntary organisationsPractical conservation work with native breeds differs from much of that with wild and endangered animals in that it still relies heavily on volunteers, in the form of interest groups for particular

breeds or groups of breeds. This may help to explain why far less research is carried out into native-breed conservation than into preserving wild animals.

Natural selection has changedA major difference from wild animals is that selection pressures – the various natural and human-driven processes that once influenced the diversification of native breeds – have all but disappeared. Attributes that at one time were presumably decisive, such as mobility, temperament and the ability to survive harsh conditions, are now of little significance or are totally irrelevant. These days, starvation and enduring severe weather are not challenges an animal is required to face. Instead, much of today’s breeding efforts focus on superficial characteristics such as colour, body shape and horns or antlers. Exactly what impact this will have on the offspring of today’s native breeds remains to be seen.

Furthermore, inbreeding can be a significant problem with native breeds. In the case of the cow, many were perhaps good survivors but bad milk producers and thus suffered badly as agriculture changed dramatically in the 1900s, when meagre pastureland was no longer needed and feed production began on farmland. More productive special breeds quickly took over and pushed out the native breeds.

The inauguration of the Farm took place in a downpour.

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Knowledge transferOver the years, Nordens Ark’s work with native breeds has been more a matter of sharing information and skills than an active, driving force in genetically based conservation efforts. It is not easy to keep a lot of breeds while conducting targeted breeding with each of them simultaneously. But Nordens Ark’s educational role when it comes to native breeds and our cultural heritage cannot be underestimated. Preserving gene strains can turn out to be more important than it at first seems. Old native breeds have been used as a basis for crossbreeding

Swedish mountain cattle — an endangered native breed — chew the cud in the meadow in front of the new Farm. The Farm was designed by architect Tomas Rossing, and the building is a landmark on one of the most important traffic routes in Sotenäs municipality. (1)

A rooster of the endangered native breed Orust hen, which has adapted itself over time to island life in the Orust and Tjörn archipelago. (2)

The Farm fulfils many important functions, not least our Djur och Skur pre-school. (3)pictures tom svensson

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The Farm and Ecopark working togetherAnimals from the Farm keep the land open in the Ecopark, where we’re striving to recreate the kind of landscape, characterised by grazing cattle, sheep, goats and horses, that existed here two centuries ago. The Farm is trying to increase the number of its old-breed native cattle so that they can help to keep these lands open.

attempts with aurochs and the forest-dwelling Eurasian wild horse, also known as the tarpan.

As well as its function in showing off native breeds, the Farm importantly also allows visitors – in contrast to the wild part of the zoo – direct contact with sheep, geese and rabbits. Many families with children return faithfully year after year to visit the Farm.

CONGRATULATIONS!

“ During twenty-five years Nordens Ark has become an international demonstration of how people can

nourish and reconnect with the fast dwindling seeds of nature, a unique sanctuary. It both saves and reestablishes threatened species using a powerful blend of science and passion and shapes aspirations of visitors and scientists alike, compellingly. Who is Nordens Ark for? It is for all who care about tomorrow.”

WILLIAM CONWAYFormer President and General Director of the Wildlife Conservation Society, New York, USA.

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2000••Project Peregrine Falcon begins at

Nordens Ark.

••A snow leopard born at Nordens Ark is filmed for TV being moved to Darjeeling Zoo in India.

••Photovoltaic cell and solar panel mounted on the Farm for experimental purposes.

••The final lesser white-fronted geese in this series (a total of 44 to date) are passed on to the Swedish Association for Hunting and Wildlife Management for release into the wild.

••200 fire-bellied toads reintroduced to the wild.

••Nordens Ark’s zoologist publishes EEP Felid Regional Collection Plan & Veterinarian Guidelines.

2001

••The first two peregrine falcons born at Nordens Ark are released in Dalarna.

••Three wolverine kits born. First pups born to wild-caught Arctic foxes.

•• Feasibility study begins into the possibility of becoming a field and research station for the university and college.

2002••Two otter pups released in Holland.

•• First white-backed woodpecker breeding.

•• Construction of hotel starts.

••Two seminars organised to consider Nordens Ark’s role as a field and research station.

Peregrine falconLeif Blomqvist

Project takes flight!Since 2000 Nordens Ark has been a breeding centre for peregrine falcons, with enclosures for breeding pairs, an incubation room, laboratory and kitchen. To maximise the number of hatchings every year, eggs are collected from both wild falcon nests and from the breeding birds in our facility. The eggs are then hatched artificially and the youngsters hand-fed. Using this method, the falcons can produce up to three clutches a year.

The breeding project to save the peregrine falcon, a species that was dying out because of environmental toxins, began back in the 1970s. The breeding work of Project Peregrine Falcon proved decisive in saving the species in Sweden. In conjunction with Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish and British conservation agencies, a breeding population was established outside Tullare Hög in Kungälv with the aim of recreating a wild population of breeding pairs in south-west Sweden.

Breeding over several years, producing a large number of young birds for release, was required in order to attain this goal. Project Peregrine Falcon has been Sweden’s most successful ex situ project, with 279 falcons born at Tullare Hög released into the wild in Sweden between 1982 and 1997.

The young chicks are hand-fed for about three weeks. At this age, the youngsters imprint themselves on their parents, so they are placed with wild females, and with females in the breeding centre that have been lying on ‘dummy eggs’ made of porcelain. When the three-week-old birds demand food, the females immediately feed their foster chicks.

At the breeding centre, the foster parents feed the young until they are 38 days old. Then the chicks are taken to hacking cages placed in a suitable falcon site in the wild. To minimise contact with humans, the birds are fed through plastic tubes for a further week until they are fledged. The cages are then opened, and after a few more days of feeding, the young falcons are already catching their own prey.

Now there are viable populationsThanks to the successful support releases, the peregrine falcon has been saved in Sweden and viable populations are to be found in both the north and south-west. In recent years the releases have been concentrated mainly in the central parts of the country in order to speed up the bonding of the two geographically separated populations.

Some of the youngsters were adopted by wild falcon pairs, but most were placed out with the aid of ‘hacking’. This involves placing them in a nesting box on a cliff face about a week before they are ready to fly.

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Peregrine falcon, 2000–2013

Local craftsmen find fresh target groups at Nordens Ark.

At the age of five weeks, the young falcons are transferred to hacking cages in the wild. Project leader Christer Larsson inspects one of the cages. Peregrine falcon chicks born after 32 days’ incubation. (1)

To start with, they are hand-fed (2) before being placed with a foster mother. Susanne Geisen and Karin Larsson ring-mark the young falcons before they are put out in hacking cages. (3)pictures christer larsson

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172 released peregrine falcons!

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CONGRATULATIONS!

“ The goals of Nordens Ark are similar to those of most modern zoos, but the intense focus

on conservation practice, and the remarkable funding model used to support it, are unique in the zoological pantheon in Europe. By sharing good practice and interacting with colleagues from across the world the Ark has ensured its place in the history of conservation of the last 25 years and we very much look forward to its contribution during the next 25.” SIMON TONGEChair for EAZA Council

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2003••Nordens Ark participates in

nine different reintroduction programmes.

•• Fifth wolverine litter.

••Animal Collection Plan tightened up to concentrate more on species whose survival Nordens Ark can best help to secure. Some species were discontinued during the year.

Nordens Ark as a research stationNordens Ark has a professorship in conservation biology. The professor leads and is responsible for Nordens Ark’s conservation projects and other scientific activities. The role includes running an annual research college on the theme of conservation biology, with Nordens Ark selecting a current and suitable subject. Thanks to generous grants from Sparbanksstiftelsen Väst, FORMAS and the Erna and Victor Hasselblad Foundation, via this professorship Nordens Ark has been able to strengthen its scientific expertise as well as adapt the facility for technical research. The research college has been running since 2003 in association with the University of Gothenburg.

Research college launches in 2003The research college is sometimes run together with other organisations or agencies, such as the Swedish Species Information Centre, the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, county administrative boards and various universities. In principle, between ten and 15 postgraduates or Masters students are informally invited to attend, and the leading experts and researchers in the field give lectures and lead workshops. The researchers and students spend a week socialising, and it’s not uncommon for the students to be planning their future careers in evenings together with the experts. Evaluations of the courses have shown that for many of the students, the Nordens Ark research college proved to be one of the best aspects of their training. The aim has also been to combine theoretical and practical nature conservation and species preservation. This is why we have had a mixture of teachers with traditional academic backgrounds and people with genuine practical knowledge and experience.

Focusing on diversityFor more than ten years, many different fields of research have been touched on. The first few years focused on conservation genetics, particularly the significance of genetic variation and the

Greater …Claes Andrén

One of the traditions at Nordens Ark Is that opening ceremonies always take place in the park.

Deputy County Governor Göran Bengtsson is pictured speaking at the opening of Hotel Stallet.

Regional Councillor Roland Andersson and Governor Göte Bernhardsson are seen leading bull calf Mats, who opened the gates by eating a rope made of straw. pictures brita larsson

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… educational opportunities

problems arising from small populations. Among the lecturers was Chris West, from London Zoo, and Kristin Leus, from CBSG Europe, who talked about ways that the zoo community can help with genetically sound populations for reintroduction into the wild. Then came a series of research colleges looking at reproduction biology as it relates to conservation issues. Among the most prominent speakers was Peter Sharp, who spoke about researchers’ big success story of the 1990s – Dolly the Sheep, the first

successful attempt to clone a mammal. In 2007, the themes were the importance of biodiversity, extinction from a historical perspective, and evolution of the cultural landscape.

Amphibian crisisThe IUCN and other organisations have encouraged the zoo community to take a greater responsibility in dealing with the global amphibian crisis. Nordens Ark therefore arranged several research colleges on this subject, among them a Population and Habitat Viability Analysis (PHVA), led by Bengt Holst from Copenhagen Zoo, to look at the prospects for the green toad and the conservation measures being taken for the species. Veterinarians Erik Ågren and Bo Runsten have led discussions on disease control and the veterinary aspects of the diseases threatening amphibians’ survival, such as the feared fungal disease Chytrid fungus. Subsequent research colleges considered how best to communicate to the general public the importance of preserving biodiversity and protecting endangered species. Reintroduction of threatened species was discussed together with the Swedish Species Information Centre, the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency and its Norwegian counterpart. The goal was to establish criteria for when it is sensible and appropriate to reinforce or reintroduce endangered species into the wild.

Sound technician Maria Andrén records an ‘evening concert’ of the fire-bellied toad in Skåne and later uploads the sound files to the internet. The public can then listen to them, compare the sounds with similar ‘concerts’ in other countries and vote for the best choir in the frog world’s European Song Contest. The venture, which attracted a lot of international media interest, was intended to draw attention to an important conservation project and was named the EU’s best public activity that year.pictures claes andrén

SINGING TOADS WIN AWARD

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2003•• Start of investment in adapting the

park to act as a field and research station.

•• First research school.

•• Support association office relocates to the gatehouse.

2004 ••Pudu added to the animal

collection.

••19 peregrine falcons leave Nordens Ark for a life in the wild.

••Two research schools take place, with the focus on reproduction biology.

•• Five-year contract signed with the University of Gothenburg to collaborate over the new Ranger programme.

•• Swedish Association of Zoos and Aquaria holds its annual meeting at Nordens Ark.

•• Inauguration of new extension with lecture room, veterinary clinic and staff facilities.

2005 ••Two wolverines captured on

reindeer grazing land brought to Nordens Ark to join EEP programme.

••71st peregrine falcon born at Nordens Ark is returned to nature in Dalarna.

••Research school on native breeds.

The first research school was held at Nordens Ark in 2003 as a result of a collaboration between universities and colleges in which the University of Gothenburg and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences were important partners. It enabled Nordens Ark to strengthen its existing conservation and educational efforts and steer them in a more professional and scientific direction.

Through the professorship and regular research colleges and other educational activities, Nordens Ark was given field station status affiliated to the University of Gothenburg. A study was carried out by the university and the University of Agricultural Sciences in Skara, together with Nordens Ark, to see if there was potential for further university programmes in which a traditional academic approach might be combined with experience-based and practical skills from the zoo community.

Broader range of coursesAn important aspect was to expand the course content to ensure students left with the skills necessary to find work in a broad jobs market. This resulted in a new course at the university, the Ranger programme, and a more comprehensive animal husbandry course at Skara focusing on ethology and animal welfare. When they were launched, these two courses were among the most sought-after in the country.

The Ranger programmeThe Ranger programme has a solid grounding in conservation biology but has been supplemented by hands-on management of zoo animals, breeding and releasing methods, administration, human resources and finance, as well as group leadership skills. In this way, biologists are trained for positions of responsibility within conservation agencies, national parks and the education system. The post-secondary postgraduate course in animal welfare, ethology and disease control at Skara’s University of Agricultural Sciences has similar aims: to broaden traditional university education so students are well prepared and have

Working with universities and colleges Claes Andrén

Marie Berglund, environmental manager for the Bothnia Line railway, inspects a shaft where cables beside the track join. These shafts can become traps for many small animals. Nordens Ark staff came up with a simple solution that allows frogs, snakes and other small creatures to climb out.picture claes andrén

the right skills for the workplace. Parts of the training for both of these courses take place at Nordens Ark. In partnership with principally the University of Gothenburg and Skara, practical and exam work can be done at Nordens Ark, where the students are offered guidance.

The research schools offers excellent opportunities for informal discussions between students and techers.picture stefan nilsson

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Research trainingPostgraduates can also undertake some of their studies at Nordens Ark. Working with the university, this enables them to develop new skills in matters relating to animal behaviour and welfare, breeding, releases and other fields of conservation biology. With its particular expertise, Nordens Ark is also a resource for different agencies when it comes to adapting infrastructure projects to avoid harming threatened species. An intervention on behalf of sand lizards during extension work on the E6 outside Strömstad meant that a population could be moved to a new site.

Jimmy Helgesson from Nordens Ark and an animal care intern collect great capricorn beetles that have just arrived from Poland. The beetles are part of a conservation project backed by Kalmar county administrative board.picture claes andrén

Nordens Ark’s programmes in 2013• Pre-school• Comprehensive school• Upper secondary school• College• Graduate courses

CONGRATULATIONS!

“ The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) has a clearly articulated aspirational vision for

all zoological institutions: the ultimate reason for our existence is to allow for the full conservation potential of world zoos and aquariums to be realized. No zoo or aquarium better exemplifies the progress toward this vision than Nordens Ark, now celebrating a quarter century of successful conservation breeding, research and education action. From its start in 1989, Nordens Ark has focused on an integrated conservation strategy—linking the breeding programs and educational activities on its beautiful property with efforts to restore wild populations of many species. The institution’s priorities are well represented by the careful selection of species and programmes it engages in. Every animal living at the Ark, all of the classes and other experiences it offers to the public, and all of its many strategic partnerships with other conservation, scientific and educational organizations combine serve to strengthen the Ark’s core purpose of saving animals on the brink of extinction. The work of Nordens Ark is deeply respected and admired by zoological and conservation professionals across the globe. The leadership of CEO Lena M. Linden in the international community—today as a Member of WAZA Council but in many other past and current roles as well—has enhanced the impeccable reputation of Nordens Ark, which is consistently cited as exemplifying the very best practices in the global zoo-based conservation movement. As the current President of WAZA, I salute Lena, her team and the gener- ous and enlightened community that supports the vital work of Nordens Ark. The past twenty-five years of remarkable achievements has been very impressive, and has set the stage for even greater conservation successes in the future.”

LEE C. EHMKEDirector, CEO. Minnesota Zoological GardenPresident, World Association of Zoos and Aquariums

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2006••Amur tiger enclosure opens and a

male tiger arrives from England.

•• Collaboration with the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, relating to the Candidate Programme for Ethology and Animal Welfare launched by Nordens Ark, is extended.

•• Snow leopards receive new breeding male from Krakow, and a maned wolf female arrives from Plock Zoo in Poland.

••New professorship created.

2007 •• Confiscated wild Amur tiger female

arrives in December from Russia.

•• International zoo organisations ISIS and CBSG hold their mid-year meetings at Nordens Ark.

•• International green toad PHVA workshop hosted by Nordens Ark.

•• International research college on amphibians.

Lesser white-fronted geese Leif Blomqvist

Project: Halt the decline!The Swedish Lesser White-Fronted Goose Project was launched in the 1970s by the Swedish Association for Hunting and Wildlife Management, the WWF and the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency. Its aim was to stop the rapid decline of the lesser white-fronted goose (LWfG) through breeding and releases of captive-born goslings. Between 1981 and 1999, 348 LWfG hatched at Öster Malma and Nordens Ark were released in Swedish Lapland. To avoid the risk from hunters in the over-wintering areas in Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Iran, barnacle geese were used as foster parents. The young LWfG migrated with their foster parents to the barnacle geese’s wintering places in the Netherlands, where there is no danger from hunters. The releases bore fruit, and at the end of the 1980s it was estimated that the Swedish population of LWfG numbered more than 100. Sweden’s was the only wild population of the species to increase.

Pure-bred rearing The releases came to a halt at the turn of the century when it was discovered that some of the LWfG involved in the breeding had traces of greater white-fronted goose in their genes and were therefore not pure-breeds. All the LWfG kept for breeding were examined, and birds with a influence of greater white-fronted goose in their genetic make-up were taken out of the breeding programme. Following the positive experiences with restocking attempts, it was, however, decided to continue the breeding, but now with pure-bred birds from the Russian tundra. So as not to over-stress the Russian population, not more than two goslings were taken from each wild brood. The birds were transferred from the capture sites on the tundra to Moscow Zoo, where they were quarantined and examined by a vet. From Moscow, the birds were transported to the newly built breeding facility at Nordens Ark.

Lesser white-fronted geese are Scandinavia’s most endangered bird species. There are many reasons for their decline, but hunting in the over-wintering areas and along the migration route are probably the greatest threat to the species. Drainage and other damage to the wetlands on the migration routes also contributed to the species’ marked downturn. picture tom svensson

Claes Andrén — Nordens Ark’s first professor.picture hans berggren

A Briefing book — a compilation of all the information needed to save the green toad — is produced in connection with an international workshop entitled Population and Habitat Viability Analysis.

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Lesser white-fronted geese chicks from Nordens Ark are transported to release areas in the Arjeplog mountains by helicopter. Animal keeper Linda Svensson from Nordens Ark helps unload the geese from the helicopter.picture john söderlindh

For the 20th anniversary, a new breeding facility was opened for lesser white-fronted geese, funded by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency. The building has heated indoor spaces with pools, outdoor enclosures, storerooms and a kitchen.picture leif blomqvist

Nordens Ark’s breeding facilityThe first LWfG from Russia arrived in 2006. Several more batches arrived before the last birds arrived at Nordens Ark in 2013. In order to ensure a sufficiently broad genetic base for the breeding population, almost 60 LWfG have been imported to Nordens Ark. The first brood from the new breeding birds was born at Nordens Ark in 2008. The number of births has risen year by year. Some of the youngsters have been kept for future breeding, but most have been released in the Arjeplog mountains and in the Porsanger fjord in Norway. In case of an outbreak of disease wiping out the existing breeding population at Nordens Ark, a number of the breeding birds have been moved to the Swedish Association for Hunting and Wildlife Management’s facility at Öster Malma.

Restockings continueThe first restocking attempts took place in 2010, and the number of releases has risen since then as more and more goslings are born at Nordens Ark. We have avoided using barnacle geese as foster parents for the releases, and instead released one-year-olds together with fledglings in the hope that they will be accepted by wild LWfG still in the region, and accompany them to the over-wintering sites in the Netherlands.

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Lesser white-fronted goose 2008−2013

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2008••The Year of the Frog.

•• Inauguration of the Wetlands with a large number of new species. The animal collection is boosted above all by tropical species, namely the amphibians that were added. Crown Princess Victoria opened the facility, releasing two catfish into the pond and unveiling a stone frog.

••Record-breaking number of new species.

2009 ••20th anniversary.

•• International workshop Back to Nature with Crown Princess Victoria and Jane Goodall, as well as about two dozen participants, half of them from other parts of Europe.

•• Inauguration of Phase II, an enclosure with a pond and indoor space, at the Amur tiger facility.

••A new sculpture by the park entrance marks a new era in Nordens Ark’s short history!

••Nordens Ark changes its logo type.

2008 was called The Year of the Frog as a contribution to a worldwide campaign launched by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). A few years earlier, several hundred of the world’s leading amphibian experts made a joint assessment of the global situation for frogs, toads, salamanders and caecilians. The result was disheartening: a third of amphibians were judged to be at risk of dying out, and little was known about the status of a further third. A reasonable guess was that about half of the Earth’s amphibian species were heading for extinction.

New viewing facility focusing on amphibiansNordens Ark’s commitment to amphib- ians has manifested itself in various ways. During The Year of the Frog, a new viewing facility was opened with a two- storey building where frogs, toads and salamanders – exotic as well as domestic species – are displayed in naturalistic terrariums. The venture included outdoor aviaries for Swedish species, right next to the building. The aim is to educate visitors about threatened species and about what is being done to protect them. It is particularly useful to explain the projects in which Nordens Ark plays an

WetlandsClaes Andrén

Participants from the workshop “Back to Nature” From left in front row: Sven Eckerstein, Lena M Lindén, Crown Princess Victoria, Jane Goodall, Chris West and Göran Bengtsson.picture stefan nilsson

Lena M Lindén receives the Ulysses S. Seal Award for innovation in conservation in 2009.

active role through breeding and releases into the wild. Sometimes our involvement consists of restoring and recreating optimal habitats for the endangered species. In certain cases our contribution has been more research-oriented work in other countries.

Successful campaigns on home soilNordens Ark has actively contributed to improving the conservation status of native amphibians by extensive rearing and releases of mainly the green toad, but also the fire-bellied toad, and by restoring the natterjack toad’s habitats on the west coast. The situation for several of the species that were once most endangered is now markedly improved, and some species have even been removed from the Red List. Sweden’s success in improving the prospects of amphibians is unique in the world. It is the result of a great deal of commitment and collaboration between individual enthusiasts and experts, organisations and authorities, with Nordens Ark often taking a leading role.

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Measures to save exotic amphibiansNordens Ark has also been involved on an international level, partly by taking on responsibilities in the global management of conservation work, for example in the Amphibian Survival Alliance (ASA) and the Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (CBSG). Our commitment has also included research into endangered native species in Turkey, such as the Holtz frog. The most recent conservation project for amphibians is field investigations and financial support for restoring vital habitats for some of the most threatened frogs in Central America, among them the lemur leaf-frog. Working principally with Manchester Museum in the UK, Nordens Ark is taking part in a research and conservation project for endangered amphibians in Panama and Costa Rica.

In addition to amphibians and reptiles, you can also see storks, cranes and geese in the Wetland area. The white-naped cranes hatched for the first time in 2013. (1)picture tom svensson

A male European fire-bellied toad calling to attract females. (2) European tree frog. (3) picture claes andrén

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CONGRATULATIONS!

“ I visit many zoos as I travel around the world. And there is no question but that Nordens Ark is one of the

very very best. If I were an animal in captivity this is definitely one of the few I would choose. Congratulations to everyone who helps to make this such a special place.” JANE GOODALL PhD, DBE. Founder – the Jane Goodall Institute & UN Messenger of Peace.www.janegoodall.org

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2010••Nordens Ark joins the IUCN

••Transformation of 300 hectares of land from managed forest to high-biodiversity pasture land begins.

•• Foundation is granted a 90-account and becomes a member of the Postcode Association, and thereby a beneficiary.

••Releases of lesser white-fronted geese resume.

••Nordens Ark’s researcher carries out a ground-breaking study of snow leopards in the Gobi Desert.

Nordens Ark Foundation has been engaged in snow leopard conservation for many years. In 2010, that commitment was expanded when Nordens Ark began supporting studies of wild snow leopards in Mongolia by helping to fund research student Örjan Johansson, who works at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Grimsö.

Nordens Ark’s snow leopardsOur very first pair of snow leopards arrived in 1989, and over the years 26 cubs have been born in the park. The youngsters – part of the European breeding programme, the EEP – have been placed in various zoos around the world. Nordens Ark is responsible for the species’ international studbook and also co-ordinates snow leopard breeding across Europe. Thus every snow leopard held in captivity since the end of the 1800s is listed in a database at Nordens Ark.

The mysterious snow leopard Emma Nygren, Örjan Johansson & Leif Blomqvist

The unknown ecology of the snow leopardA proper understanding of snow leopard ecology and reliable estimates of the wild population size have long been lacking. Research into the species began in the 1980s, but it has been a slow process because it turned out to be difficult to gather data on the snow leopard. At the start of the 2000s, we still didn’t know much about the biology of the species. Consequently, in the summer of 2008, the Snow Leopard Trust and Panthera organisations began a long-term study in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert. It is planned that this research will last ten to 15 years and collect information to help us understand the snow leopard and develop a conservation programme to secure its future.

Wild snow leopards in MongoliaThe study is now into its sixth year and has produced valuable data on the biology of the snow leopard. A total of 19 individuals have been captured and fitted with radio transmitters. One male was tracked for as long as five years. The collar generated more than 27,000 GPS locations. Over 250 prey animals killed by the snow leopards have been found, and by studying them we can work out how often males, solitary females or females with cubs make a kill, which prey animals they choose and how often they take domestic livestock. Some 40 camera traps have been used every summer to see if they can help compile an inventory of individual animals. Five females fitted with collars have produced cubs, and for the first time it has also been possible to observe the youngsters. The camera traps enable the cubs to be monitored and an estimate to be made of how many survive to adulthood. The project has also collected samples from rodents and goats so that any local diseases can be studied to see if they pose a threat to the wild snow leopards.

Snow leopards playing at Nordens Ark in the winter of 2013.picture tom svensson

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RUSSIA

MONGOLIA

CHINA

BHUTAN

MYANMAR

TAJIKISTAN

NEPAL

INDIA

PAKISTAN

KAZAKHSTAN

With the aid of radio transmitters and satellites, it’s possible to work out the area of each individual’s range, which terrain they prefer, whether there are areas they avoid, where they catch their prey and how they interact.snow leopard trust

Snow Leopard Trust field station in Mongolia’s Tost mountains. snow leopard trust

The snow leopard’s range extends over 12 national borders.

The worldwide breeding of captive snow leopards is managed from Nordens Ark, and the species’ international studbook is compiled by Leif Blomqvist who has maintained the International Studbook since 1976.

CONGRATULATIONS!

“ For a quarter of a century, Nordens Ark has been proving that zoos can play a key role both in conserving some of the world’s most threatened species and, perhaps more importantly, help people reconnect with nature at a time when so many of us suffer

from a ‘nature deficit disorder’. IUCN is proud to have Nordens Ark as its very active and committed Member since 2010, sharing our vision of ‘a just world that values and conserves nature’. It is therefore my great pleasure to congratulate Lena M Lindén and all staff of Nordens Ark on the 25th anniversary, and to wish you many happy returns! ”

CONGRATULATIONS: JULIA MARTON-LEFÈVRE, Director General of IUCN

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2011••Nordens Ark joins the WWF in its

efforts to save the Amur tiger in the Russian Far East. The project is funded by the Postcode Lottery.

••Release of freshwater catfish in Kristianstads Vattenrike Biosphere Reserve.

••Pallas cat enclosure opened.

•• Scandinavian nature film festival at Nordens Ark.

•• First Japanese crane chicks hatched.

••Djur och Skur pre-school opens.

In 2011, Nordens Ark, with support from the Swedish Postcode Lottery, launched a project with the WWF to save the Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) in the wild. This was a continuation and broadening of an engagement that began in the summer of 2004 with the building of a breeding facility to hold the species and participate in the global breeding programme. The facility was constructed in two stages, the first completed in 2006 and the second in 2009. It now comprises two large enclosures, totalling 7,000 square metres, as well as three smaller ones totalling 1,000 square metres.

Nordens Ark’s work with the Amur tiger reached a milestone in 2007 when a wild-born confiscated female arrived from Moscow Zoo. She is ranked No 1 in the European breeding programme and is regarded as especially valuable, since she was born in the wild and is not related to any other animals in the programme. The female was found abandoned by her mother, who had probably been shot by poachers. A breeding male arrived at Nordens Ark in 2012. Three cubs were born in April 2013 – a male and two females. These youngsters will stay with their mother for about 18 months, just as they would have done in the wild. Then they will be moved to other participating zoos in the programme.

Amur tigerEmma Nygren & Bo Norming

Project AnuiskyThe main threats to tigers are illegal hunting of both the tiger and its prey species, as well as fragmentation of its home ranges. The wild population of Amur tigers is estimated at fewer than 500 individuals, most living in Primorsky province and about 15 per cent in the northern districts to the north of Khabarovsk. Several protected areas have been created in this region in the past decade, the largest being Anuisky National Park, which covers nearly 430,000 hectares. The long-term goal of the project is to secure a sustainable development of the Amur tiger population in its northernmost range. This can be done by combating illegal hunting, expanding ecotourism in the region and creating a sustainable use of local natural resources.

Actions in the fieldThe project has contributed by building up a more effective monitoring organisation in the national park. Newly formed teams are equipped with the necessary physical resources such as boats, vehicles and snow scooters. The project also helped by building ranger stations and checkpoints to make it

Nordens Ark’s management and the WWF on an inspection tour in Anuisky National Park.

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In April 2013, Nordens Ark’s wild-born tigress gave birth to three cubs. Since she is not related to any other tigers in the zoo park population, she and her first litter are genetically highly valuable to the breeding programme.picture tom svensson

easier to monitor the park. Money has been invested in camera traps and yearly inventories so the tiger population can be recorded. Today, there are thought to be between 20 and 25 tigers in Anuisky National Park and the surrounding area.

In every conservation programme, it is important to involve the local people in order to increase understanding and foster an engagement in protecting endangered

species. The project has organised a number of educational initiatives, among them a mobile exhibition entitled The Amur Tiger’s Land is our Home, an Amur tiger parade, and an eco-friendly children’s club. Furthermore, a visitor and training centre has been built which, among other things, will address the issues of how the local Nanai population manage their traditional natural resources.

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2011The Ecopark started as an idea in about 2006 and began as a project in 2011. The project was largely inspired by the desire to boost the populations of some of the native breeds and to Improve the biological values of the lands outside Nordens Ark. Could it be possible, perhaps, to recreate a large part of Åby manor’s cultivated land with the help of the native breeds? By 2008, much of the old outlying lands had been replanted with highly productive dark and financially valuable plantation forest. But sadly not so great for biodiversity! With funds from Region Västra Götaland, one of the biggest restoration projects in the area got off the ground in the winter of 2011 as a natural extension of the Nordens Ark project. A thorough survey had been carried out in 2008 by Mats Niklasson, and in 2010 the plan was approved by the Board. An application was submitted to Region Västra Götaland and approved, and the project began with the felling of several tens of hectares of spruce in the winters of 2011 and 2012. Preserving biodiversity was an important objective of the project, as well as recreating the ancient landscape.

More pasturelandThe 2007 storm Per had previously blown down large swathes of spruce plantations which had not yet been

The EcoparkMats Niklasson

replaced. This land also became pasture. To date, about 90 hectares of forest have been transformed into grazing land. Contributions towards restoring the lands have also been received from the Board of Agriculture. Much of the grant from the region of Västra Götaland was spent on fencing and a big winter shelter for the animals. A large feed storage building has also been completed with finance from Västra Götaland county administrative board. A lot of effort has been put into clearing spruce branches left behind by the felling. The Swedish Forest Agency has contributed with workers participating in programmes to help the jobless. Most of the pastureland is in the western part of our lands, but a significant restoration effort is also being undertaken in the meadows along the Åby fjord and the nearby stream valley.

Restoration of meadow floraA special effort is being been made for the meadow flora. Scything has started on small remnants of meadows and patches where there are meadow plants. One of the meadows has been adopted by upper secondary school students from Uddevalla, who come every year to mow and help with the restoration work. Generally, Åby’s meadow flora has been much depleted thanks to weed overgrowth and earlier fertiliser use. An

Ann-Sofie Helgesson and Anna Schylberg try out a newly laid path in the Ecopark. (1)

Not much is known about moth fauna on the west coast. Nordens Ark is trying to change this with an inventory project. Here, Hans Pettersson, Sverker Thoresson and Mats Niklasson sift through material from the first night butterfly traps set out in the Ecopark in 2013. (2)picture lisa sihlberg

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inventory identified small remnants of meadowland, and restoration work began. Many species of butterflies, bees, other insects and small birds have suffered from the loss of wildflower meadows, so the restoration project is vital for diversity. Nordens Ark has also started cultivating the meadow plants that were found on its own lands. Tree-pollarding is under way in many places, as well as planting of leaf fodder so stubble shoots can be harvested (planted in 2011, first harvest 2014) for many of the animals at Nordens Ark.

Nature conservation on many levelsSeveral other pure nature conservation projects have been carried out: fauna depots; creation of dead wood by, for example, girdling , veteranisation of young oaks to create hollow trees for the future; conservation burning; ‘bee hotels’; and more.

Considerable effort is being put into making it easier for visitors to move around the Ecopark, with gates and stiles, paths, bridges and footbridges, information boards and wheelchair access. Much of this is being undertaken in conjunction with Sotenäs municipality and archaeological conservation work in Västra Götaland county + LEADER. Finally, the biological results are evaluated by collecting insects, butterflies and moths. Even vascular plants are catalogued, as well as birds and some cryptogams.

The six-spot Burnet moth Zygaena filipend ulae is one of the Ecopark’s rarities. It’s red- listed (NT) and numbers have fallen sharply over the whole of southern Sweden, where the moth depends on leguminous plants in dry meadowlands. These habitats have been replanted or become overgrown in the past 70 years. We are now restoring several sites by mowing, clearing and burning to improve prospects for this moth and its close relatives, the New Forest Burnet and the Green Forester. If the restoration goes well, perhaps we can reintroduce the narrow-bordered five-spot Burnet, which was once to be found in the region but has died out. Burnet moths have attracted particular attention thanks to the Swedish Species Information Centre’s monitoring activities.picture sverker thoresson

Conservation burnings took place twice in the summer of 2013 in forest and heathland within two of the pasture areas. Strict precautions were taken, with firebreaks and firefighting equipment on hand. picture lisa sihlberg

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2012•• Claudio Segré visits Nordens Ark

and the Segré Foundation becomes a financial supporter.

•• Capricorn beetle project launched.

••Great capricorn beetle project launched.

••Opening of European ground squirrel enclosure.

Invertebrates play a key role in the ecosystem’s various nutrient stages by, among other things, pollinating plants and breaking down organic matter. Nordens Ark has consequently committed itself to preserving them. The great capricorn beetle, Cerambyx cerdo, is critically endangered in Sweden and is now found in only a few oaks on Öland. In 2012, Nordens Ark was commissioned by Kalmar county administrative board to develop a method of rearing great capricorn beetles. This beetle is Sweden’s largest longhorn beetle and with a body length of up to five cm. The beetle lives on old, coarse-bark oaks exposed to sunlight, and it’s likely that the scarcity of these habitats is what led to the dramatic decline of the species.

Greater capricorn beetleEmma Nygren & Claes Andrén

Beetle breedingAt Nordens Ark we’re developing a breeding and rearing system so we can release great capricorn beetles into the wild in Sweden if this becomes necessary. Following an agreement with Polish conservation agencies, the project is permitted to collect 15 pairs of great capricorn beetles a year in Poland from 2012 to 2014. At the end of May, when the longhorns beetles hatch, Nordens Ark staff collect the beetles in Poland for transport to our laboratory. We place a male with a female in terrariums that include fragments of oak trunks to give the insects a natural breeding site. The adults mate and lay eggs over a couple of weeks, and the oak pieces are examined regular- ly to make sure we find as many eggs as possible. They are small but easy to identify. The eggs hatch after a few days and the larvae are fed. They are given an individual ID number so we can follow their development to adulthood.

In nature, the beetles have a long larval development that can last five years. By providing the right conditions, we hope to be able to reduce the development time and produce a large number of young beetles in just a few years. As part of the project, different feeds are being tried to see which gives the best growth rate. Some of the larvae are also put into hibernation to imitate the species’ natural life cycle.

After the adult beetles have mated, they lay their eggs in the crevices of oak bark. Here, keepers Emma Nygren and Kristofer Försäter look for newly laid eggs so they can be put in Petri dishes for hatching. The larvae are then reared on a mixture of oak chips and shredded carrot.picture jimmy helgesson

Maned wolf cub. picture tom svensson

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The adult individuals hatch at the end of May, mate (1) and lay their eggs in the oak bark. After mating, the females lay their eggs in the bark. (2) Every larva is ID-tagged and is fed until it pupates. (3) The great capricorn beetle larvae live a secretive life for three to five years in old, sun-exposed oaks. It’s probable that the lack of old oaks is what led to the great capricorn beetle’s decline. pictures jimmy helgesson

Old oak trees represent a rich source of biodiversity. An oak will continue growing for about 300 years before starting to wither and lose some of its branches. This happens very slowly, and usually it’s a further 500 years before the tree is totally dead. During this time, it acts as a refuge for numerous animals that reproduce in the shelter of the dying tree. Old oak trees can thus be home to up to 200 red-listed species. pictures claes andrén

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2013••Three Amur tiger cubs born in April.

••Three snow leopard cubs born at the end of May. Ecopark animal shelter opens and a large number of cattle are let out on to the forest pasture in the fenced sections of the Ecopark. Photographers’ hide, hiking paths, viewing point with disabled access at Varpet.

••New signage in the park.

••Nature film festival in association with the municipality.

••Preparations for the 25th anniversary celebrations in the park: grounds around the Farm are improved, start of construction to link the snow leopard and Pallas cat walkways. Persian leopard enclosure planning begins.

The year that’s gone – a review Leif Blomqvist

Births There were a number of signific- ant births during 2013. Among the co-ordinated ESB, EEP and ISB species, increases were recorded for forest reindeer (Rangifer tarandus fennicus), pudu (Pudu puda), Tadjik markhor (Capra falconeri heptneri), wolverine (Gulo g. gulo), snow leopard (Uncia uncia) and red panda (Ailurus f. fulgens). Despite intensive prophylactic measures, sadly, none of the three Pallas cat kittens (Felis f. manul) born in the early summer survived, falling victim to toxoplasmosis at three months old. Happier news was the first breeding of white-naped cranes (Grus vipio). To everyone’s surprise, two chicks were hatched. The species has been kept at the park since 1993, but it took 20 years for the first successful breeding. Another species that hadn’t reproduced before was the European ground squirrel (Spermo- philus citellus), which came to Nordens Ark the previous year from Nuremberg. The winter hibernation is always a critical period for animals, particularly for the ground squirrels, which had arrived in late summer and needed to find some- where to hibernate in a new environment. Fortunately, all of them coped with their first winter in Bohuslän, and by June we discovered that the colony already had a handful of new members.

Tiger cubs and lesser white-fronted geeseFrom the public’s point of view, it was the birth of three tiger cubs (Panthera tigris altaica) that attracted most media attention. The births were an important event, not just for visitors but also for the entire breeding programme. Our tiger female is ranked No 1 in the breeding programme, since she was born in the wild and is not related to any other individuals in the programme. Her cubs should therefore be easy to place, and in fact two have already been reserved for other participating zoos, even before their first birthdays.

Among other notable births, the lesser white-fronted geese (Anser erythropus) produced more goslings than ever before, and the peregrine falcons (Falco p. peregrinus) and white-backed woodpeckers (Dendrocopus leucotos) each had 16 offspring. In the Wetlands, the white stork pair (Ciconia ciconia) had four chicks. Most of these young birds were taken to be released in the national support project Nordens Ark is involved in.

Acquisitions and divestmentsIt is with pleasure that we can say that the number of animals departing far

pictu

re to

m sven

sson

Large enclosures allow the animals to display their natural behaviour.

exceeded the number arriving at the park. The most important arrivals included a new red panda male from Opel Zoo in Germany and two female Standing’s day geckos (Phelsuma standingi) from Warsaw. Twenty-five new great capricorn beetles (Cerambyx cerdo) were brought from Poland for the breeding project that began the year before (Blomqvist & Hallenberg 2013) as part of the national action programme for the species (Hedin 2009).

In accordance with a recommendation from the Swedish Association of Zoos and Aquaria, a new Russian-born male wolf (Canis l. lupus) was brought in from Skåne Zoo. In the coming year, he will be paired with a new female from Lycksele and establish a new wolf strain at Nordens Ark.

Reptiles and amphibians successfully exportedNumerically, it was reptiles and amphibians that dominated the year’s exports, with 89 individuals of Kaiser’s spotted newt (Neurergus kaiseri), Malayan horned frog (Megophrys nasuta), pool frog (Rana lessonae) and sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) sent to zoos in Newquay, Wroclaw, Universeum (Gothenburg) and Skåne. Among co-ordinated species, three

yellow-headed day geckos (Phelsuma klemmeri) went to Bristol; five maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus), on the advice of the co-ordinator, were moved to zoos in Australia, France and England; two otters (Lutra l. lutra) were transferred to Hunawihr and Straubing; a wolverine to Minnesota; two forest reindeer females to Liberec; a young red panda female to Borås; and a Przewalski’s horse colt (Equus caballus przewalskii) was sent to Sprakel semi-reserve in Germany.

European roller and hoopoe are new speciesTwo new species arrived at the park at year’s end when Frankfurt provided us with a pair of hoopoes (Upupa epops) and

European roller birds (Coracias garrulus). Both species were once sporadic breeding birds in Sweden, with the last roller birth recorded in Fårö at the end of the 1960s. Hoopoes bred on Öland as recently as the late 1990s. In this century, neither species has bred in Sweden and both are consequently red-listed as Regionally Extinct (RE) in the Swedish fauna. The two species are also showing a decline globally, with the roller in particular disappearing so fast throughout its northernmost range that it may be upgraded to Vulnerable (VU). In spite of their spectacular appearance, the roller and hoopoe are seldom kept in zoos, and you can’t see them in any other zoo in Scandinavia. The species’ declining numbers, combined with the fact that both once bred in Sweden, make them well suited to Nordens Ark’s collection. The hoopoe is a species that has a European studbook (ESB). We are planning to keep the rollers and hoopoes together with our northern bald ibises to enhance our visitors’ experience.

ReferencesBlomqvist, L. & M. Hallenberg (2013):

Animal Collection Changes. Nordens Ark Annual Report 2012: 6–18. Nordens Ark Foundation.

Cook, J. & T. Arzhanova (2013): Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica). EEP Status and Recommendations 2013. Zool. Soc. of London.

Hedin, J. (2009): Action Plan for the Great Capricorn Beetle 2010–2014 (Cerambyx cerdo). Swedish Environmental Protection Agency Report 6316 (Swedish).

The ground squirrel, which is related to the squirrel, is endemic to Europe. In recent decades its numbers have declined markedly, due mainly to open grasslands being converted to arable land or forestry. picture christer larsson

With its distinctive look, the hoopoe is hard to confuse with other birds. During the year, a pair arrived from Frankfurt am Main Zoo.picture christer larsson

29

2013 Nordens Ark Animal InventoryThreat Degree of

co-ordinationStatus

Jan 1, 2013Born Arrived Died Discontinued Status

Dec 31, 2013Globally Sweden

InsectsLonghorn beetle Plagionotus detritus - EN 0.0.10 - - - - 0.0.10Great capricorn beetle Cerambyx cerdo VU CR 15.15 0.0.476 16.9 31.24 - 0.0.476FishEuropean catfish Silurus glanis LC EN 2.5.1 - - 1.1.1 - 1.4AmphibiansKaiser’s spotted newt Neurergus kaiseri CR 0.0.33 0.0.18 - 0.0.4 0.0.30 11.4.17Smooth newt Triturus vulgaris LC - 0.0.10 - - 0.0.10 - -Northern crested newt Triturus cristatus LC - 0.0.10 0.0.2 - - - 0.0.12Common toad Bufo bufo LC - 0.0.10 - - 0.0.10 - -Natterjack toad Bufo calamita LC VU 0.0.28 - - 0.0.2 - 0.0.26Cane toad Bufo marinus - 0.0.3 - - - - 0.0.3Green toad Bufo viridis LC CR 1.1.407 - - 1.1.127 0.0.230 0.0.51Green and black poison frog Dendrobates auratus LC 0.0.2 - - 0.0.2 - -Yellow-headed poison frog Dendrobates leucomelas LC 0.0.15 - - - - 0.0.15Golden poison frog Phyllobates terribilis EN 1.1.24 - - 0.0.9 - 1.1.15Golfodulcean poison frog Phyllobates vittatus EN 1.1.13 0.0.5 - 0.0.5 - 1.1.13Fire-bellied toad Bombina bombina LC - 0.0.3 - - - - 0.0.3European tree frog Hyla arborea LC - 0.0.6 - - 0.0.1 - 4.1Amazon milk frog Trachycephalus resinifictrix LC 3.5.8 - - 0.1 - 9.6White’s tree frog Pelodryas caerulea - 0.0.9 - - - - 0.0.9Giant ditch frog Leptodactylus fallax CR ESB 1.3 - - - - 1.3Golden mantella frog Mantella aurantiaca CR 1.1.6 - - 0.0.1 - 1.1.5False tomato frog Dyscophus guineti LC 0.0.20 - - 0.1 - 6.0.13Long-nosed horned frog Megophrys nasuta LC 3.1.128 - - 1.0.6 0.0.60 2.0.78Garlic toad Pelobates fuscus LC NT 0.0.53 - - 0.0.16 - 0.0.37Carvalho’s Surinam toad Pipa carvalhoi LC 0.0.4 - - 0.0.2 0.0.1 -Moor frog Rana arvalis LC - 0.0.10 - - 0.0.10 - -Agile frog Rana dalmatina LC VU 0.0.10 - - 0.0.4 - 0.0.6Edible frog Rana esculenta LC - 1.1.17 - - 0.0.13 - 1.1.4Pool frog Rana lessonae LC VU 0.0.9 0.0.67 - 0.1.4 0.0.51 4.3.39Marsh frog Rana ridibunda LC - 1.1.32 0.08 - 0.0.11 - 19.12Common frog Rana temporaria LC - 0.0.10 - - 0.0.10 - -Common tree frog Polypedates leucomystax LC 0.0.39 - - 2.0.3 - 14.12.10Chantaburi warted tree frog Theloderma stellatum NT 0.0.14 - - 0.0.14 - -Vietnamese mossy frog Theloderma corticale DD 0.0.8 - - 0.0.2 - 0.0.6

TurtlesEuropean pond turtle Emys orbicularis NT 2.11 - - 1.0 - 1.11Caspian turtle Mauremys caspica - 1.0 - - - - 1.0Vietnamese pond turtle Mauremys annamensis CR 2.4 - - 0.1 - 2.3Red-necked pond turtle Chinemys nigricans EN 2.3 - - - - 2.3Roti Island snake-necked turtle Chelodina mccordi CR ESB 4.6.1 - - 1.0 - 3.6.1

LizardsBrown basilisk Basiliscus vittatus - 1.2 0.0.7 - 0.0.4 - 1.2.3Yellow-headed day gecko Phelsuma klemmeri EN ESB 6.9.1 -. - 2.0.1 0.3 4.6Gold dust day gecko Phelsuma l. laticauda LC 1.2 - - - 1.2 -Standing’s day gecko Phelsuma standingi VU 2.0 - 0.2 - - 2.2Madagascar day gecko Phelsuma m.

madagascariensis LC 1.2 - - - 1.2 -

Crested gecko Rhacodactylus ciliatus VU 1.1 2.0 - - - 3.1Viviparous lizard Lacerta vivipara LC - 0.0.2 - - 0.0.2 - -Sand lizard Lacerta agilis LC VU 1.1.8 0.0.15 - 0.1.8 3.2 5.3.7Slow worm Anguis fragilis - - 0.0.7 - - 0.0.7 - -

SnakesGrass snake Natrix n. gotlandica NT 3.1.2 0.0.6 0.0.11 3.0.5 0.0.1 0.1.8Adder Vipera berus LC - 4.3.2 0.0.1 2.0 0.3.1 1.0 5.2

BirdsLesser white-fronted goose Anser erythropus VU CR 55.38.3 12.6.35 0.0.4 2.2.2 37.22.22 28.20.18Red-breasted goose Branta ruficiollis EN 1.0 - - - - 1.0White stork Ciconia ciconia LC RE SDF 3.3 0.0.5 - 0.0.1 0.0.4 3.3Northern bald ibis Geronticus eremita CR EEP 7.9 - - 1.0 - 6.9Peregrine falcon Falco p. peregrinus LC VU 9.11 7.9 - 0.1 5.7 11.12White-naped crane Grus vipio VU EEP 1.1 2.0 - - - 3.1Japanese crane Grus japonensis EN EEP 2.2 - - 1.1 - 1.1Eurasian eagle-owl Bubo b. bubo LC NT 1.1 0.1 - - - 1.2Snowy owl Bubo scandiacus LC CR 1.0 - 0.1 - - 1.1

30

Key: RE – Regionally ExtinctCR – Critically EndangeredEN – EndangeredVU – VulnerableNT – Near ThreatenedLC – Least ConcernDD – Data Deficient

EEP – European Endangered Species Programme

ESB – European StudbookISB – International StudbookSDF – Regional Studbook for the Swedish

Association of Zoos and AquariaMON – Monitored

Born/Arrived/Died/DiscontinuedThe figures show the number of individuals of each sex; male . female . undetermined

Great grey owl Strix nebulosa lapponica LC NT 1.1 - - - - 1.1Ural owl Strix u. uralensis LC - 1.1 2.1 - - - 3.2European roller Coracias garrulus NT RE - - 1.1 - - 1.1Hoopoe Upupa epops LC RE ESB - - 1.1 - - 1.1White-backed woodpecker Dendrocopos leucotos LC CR 19.17 4.9.3 - 1.0 4.9.3 18.17

MammalsEuropean ground squirrel Spermophilus citellus VU 3.1 0.0.6 - 0.0.1 - 4.2.3Pallas cat Felis m. manul NT EEP/ISB 1.1 2.1 - 2.1 - 1.1European wildcat Felis s. silvestris LC 4.0 - - - - 4.0Lynx Lynx l. lynx LC NT ESB/SDF 1.1 - - - - 1.1Amur leopard Panthera pardus orientalis CR EEP/ISB 1.2 - - 0.1 - 1.1Amur tiger Panthera tigris altaica EN EEP/ISB 2.1 1.2 - - - 3.3Snow leopard Uncia uncia EN EEP/ISB 1.1 2.1 - - - 3.2Grey wolf Canis l. lupus LC EN SDF 5.1 2.1 1.0 7.2 - 1.0Maned wolf Chrysocyon brachyurus NT EEP/ISB 3.4 - - - 2.3 1.1Otter Lutra l. lutra NT VU EEP/ISB 3.2 - - - 2.0 1.2Wolverine Gulo g. gulo LC VU EEP 2.2 2.1 - 1.0 0.1 3.2Red panda Ailurus f. fulgens VU EEP/ISB 1.3 0.2 1.0 1.0 0.1 1.4Przewalski’s wild horse Equus caballus przewalskii EN EEP/ISB 1.5 - - - 1.0 0.5

Pudu Pudu puda VU EEP/ISB 1.2 1.0 - - - 2.2Forest reindeer Rangifer tarandus fennicus NT ESB 1.6 2.2 - - 0.2 3.6Tadjik markhor Capra falconeri heptneri CR EEP 7.8 3.5 - 0.3 - 10.10Urial sheep Ovis aries bochariensis VU MON 1.5 - - 0.2 - 1.3

Native breedsNordic brown bee > 10.000 > 10.000 - > 10.000 - >10.000 Orust hen EN 3.8 12.12 -. 10.6 2.3 3.11Swedish black hen EN 3.11 15.22 - 3.8 11.11 4.14Old Swedish bantam CR 3.7 7.3 - 6.2 - 4.8Öland goose CR 1.1 0.1.1 - 0.0.1 - 1.2Swedish blue duck EN 3.6 4.5 - 1.0 2.4 4.7Blekinge duck CR 2.4 - - - - 2.4Gotland rabbit EN 1.7.1 - 0.1 0.1 0.2 1.5.1Mellerud rabbit CR 3.2 - 0.2 1.0 1.1 1.3Linderöd pig EN 4.4 4.0 6.1 1.1 1.2Jämtland goat EN 3.6 5.0 1.0 4.1 4.0 1.5Lapp goat EN 2.6 3.3 - 2.2 2.4 1.3Gotland sheep - 1.7 6.6 1.0 6.3 1.0 1.10Värmlandsfår - 22.37 33.25 2.0 35.17 12.20 10.25Dala-fur sheep EN 8.18 11.14 - 16.25 - 3.7Swedish red poll CR 1.3 8.3 0.12 - 1.0 8.18Mountain cow CR 1.1 0.1 - - - 1.2Swedish mountain cow CR 1.6 - - 1.0 - 0.6Hereford cow - 0.10 6.2 1.0 - - 7.12Northern Swedish horse - 0.1 - - - - 0.1Gotland pony - 0.2 0.1 - - - 0.3Domestic cat - 0.2 - - - - 0.2

Threat Degree of co-ordination

Status Jan 1, 2013

Born Arrived Died Discontinued Status Dec 31, 2013Globally Sweden

31

Przewalski’s wild horses have been kept at Nordens Ark since the day the park opened to the public.picture leif blomqvist

32

Nordens Ark publishes studbooks and a

husbandry guide for wolverines and forest

reindeer.

PUBLICATIONSBlomqvist, L. & M. Hallenberg (2013):

Animal Collection Changes. Nordens Ark Annual Report 2012: 6–18. Nordens Ark Foundation.

Blomqvist, L. (2013): Number of Wolverines in EEP approaches 100 Individuals. Nordens Ark Annual Report 2012: 21–25. Nordens Ark .

Blomqvist, L. (2013): 2012 Census for Captive Forest Reindeer. Nordens Ark Annual Report 2012: 26–28. Nordens Ark Foundation.

Blomqvist, L. (2013): Status of the Global ex situ Population of Snow Leopards Outside China 2012. Int. Ped. Book of Snow Leopards 10: 8–13. Nordens Ark Foundation.

Blomqvist, L. (2013): Snow Leopard EEP 2012. Int. Ped. Book of Snow Leopards 10: 24–32. Nordens Ark Foundation.

Blomqvist, L.& T. Where Have All the Mustelids Gone? Zooaquaria 84: 28–29.

Bohm, M., C. Andrén et al (2013): The Conservation Status of the World’s Reptiles. Biol. Cons. 157: 372–385.

Johansson, Ö., J. Malmsten, C. Mishra, P. Lkagvajav & T. Mccarthy (2013): Reversible Immobilization of Free-Ranging Snow Leopards (Panthera uncia) with a Combination of Medetomidine and Tiletamine-Zolazepam. J. of Wildl. Diseases 49 (2): 338–346.

Larsson, C. (2013): Restocking of the Lesser White-fronted Goose in Sweden. WAZA News 2/13: 31–32.

Lengger, J., C. Walzer, L. Blomqvist (2013): pdate on Ocular Colobomata in Snow Leopards (Uncia uncia). Int. Ped. Book of Snow Leopards 10: 35–37. Nordens Ark Foundation.

Publications and staff participationLindén, L. M. (2013): An U(2013):

Comments by the Managing Director. Nordens Ark Annual Report 2012: 5. Nordens Ark Foundation.

Lindén, L. M. (2013): How to Create a Centre for Captive Breeding of Endangered Species. Int. Zoo Yearb.

Narfström, K., B. Runsten, V. Mattesson & C. Larsson (2013): Successful Cataract Surgery in a Peregrine Falcon. Poster at EAZA Annual Conference, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Niklasson, M. (2013): The Ecopark at Nordens Ark. Nordens Ark Annual Report 2012: 19–20. Nordens Ark Foundation.

Niklasson, M. (2013): A Critical Look at Forestry and Forest Management Practices and Ideology in Europe. In: Proc. of Symposium: Making Europe a Wilder Place. pp. 6–9. 10th World Wilderness Congress, Salamanca, Spain, Oct. 2013.

Note. Names in bold are Nordens Ark staff.

STAFF PARTICIPATION IN WORKING GROUPS AND ON BOARDS

EAZAEEP coordinator Leif Blomqvist Snow leopard; Wolverine.European Studbook co-ordinator (ESB) Leif Blomqvist Forest reindeer. Ewa Wikberg Yellow-throated marten.Membership in EAZA’s species committees Leif Blomqvist Snow leopard; Amur leopard; Tiger; Red panda; Wolverine; Przewalski’s wild horse. Ewa Wikberg Maned wolf; Snow leopard. Emma Nygren; Otter. Christer Larsson; Northern bald ibis.Membership in EAZAs Education Committee Eva Andersson (representing SAZA).Membership in EAZA Taxon Advisory Groups Leif Blomqvist Felid TAG; Small Carnivore TAG; Deer TAG Christer Larsson Canid TAG

Ewa Wikberg Sheep & Goat TAG; Small Carnivore TAG.

WAZALena M Lindén Council MemberInternational Studbook keeper (ISB)Leif Blomqvist Snow leopard.

CBSG Lena M Lindén Steering Committee member; Vice-chairman, Amphibian Ark Executive Committee.

ISISLena M Lindén Board member.

Swedish Association of Zoos and Aquaria (SAZA)Ewa Wikberg Board member. Maria Hallenberg SAZA representative on the Board of Agriculture’s reference group for animal genetic issues.Eva Andersson SAZA representative on the group for Research & Education.

Global Conservation NetworkLena M Lindén Board member.

Amphibian Survival Alliance (ASA)Lena M Lindén Vice-chairman.

Swedish Species Information CentreClaes Andrén Amphibian and Reptile Specialist Group.

EU LIFE Claes Andrén BaltCoast; Bombina bombina.

NAMSALena M Lindén Board member.

University of GothenburgLena M Lindén Vice-chairman, Board of Trustees, Jonsered Manor.

Swedish University of Agricultural SciencesEva Andersson Programme Board; Bachelor Programme for Ethology & Animal Welfare.

Royal Swedish Academy of Agriculture and ForestryLena M Lindén Member.

August Abrahamsson Foundation (Nääs Castle) Lena M Lindén Board member.

Swedish Tourist BoardLena M Lindén Board member.

33

2013Correction: At the close of 2012 it emerged that Moscow Zoo held 9.8 wolverines instead of the 9.9 previously stated, and that 1.1 remained at Springe, not 1.2 as stated (Blomqvist 2013). The total number of wolverines in the EEP at the end of 2012 was thus 48 males and 47 females instead of 48.49 animals as given in the annual report for 2012.

Development of the population in 2013With hindsight, one can say that by the end of the year there had been a positive development in the wolverine Gulo g. gulo population within the framework of the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP). Six litters produced in all 14 kits with an unfavourable sex ratio of 10.3.1. As two of the youngsters died, the survival rate for the 2013 kits was 85 per cent. It is worthy of mention that a wolverine litter was born in France for the first time, with a pair at Calviac producing a female kit.

The most significant event of the year was without doubt the arrival of a wild-caught young individual at Moscow Zoo. During 2013 it was also established that the female that arrived in Novosibirsk from Ekaterinburg in 2007 belonged to the sub-species Gulo g. gulo and could therefore be included in the EEP Programme (Table 1). The table also reveals that 12 recommended

Development of Wolverine EEP Leif Blomqvist, EEP co-ordinator

transfers took place within the EEP, while one wolverine left the programme. The wolverine pair in Edinburgh were moved to the Highland Wildlife Park, while Helsinki and Riga lost their last wolverines. In Europe, three new parks joined the EEP: Cézallier, Hluboká and Kingussie.

Since three parks lost their wolverines, the number of parks participating in the EEP was 36. As well as the year’s two kits that did not survive, 7.3 adult animals died during 2013 and the number of wolverines in the EEP Programme therefore grew by 3.1 animals. The total EEP population was consequently 51.48, with a further 5.6 wolverines that are not part of the breeding programme located in six parks in Russia and Germany (Table 1). The population development in the EEP Programme during this century is shown in its entirety in Figure 1.

North American parks join the EEPA new agreement between the North American breeding programme PMP and Europe’s EEP was a significant step in the EEP’s continuing development. The Small Carnivore TAGs (Taxon Advisory Groups) on each continent had previously agreed that the PMP should focus on the North American sub-species of wolverine, Gulo g. luscus, while the EEP Programme held only the nominate Gulo g. gulo, but during 2013 a waiver was made to this arrangement. The reason was mainly the lack of reproducing individuals of G. g.

Wolverines breed at the coldest time of the year, in February and March. Six litters were born as part of the breeding programme in2013. picture tom svensson

2013201020052000

99

51

49

Figure 1.Development of wolverine populationwithin the EEP-programme, 2000–2013

Total

Female

Male

G. g. luscusPMP

G. g. guloNon-EEP

G. g. guloEEP

1611

99

female

male

Figur 2.Number of wolverines in North America and Europe,Nov. 2013

34

EEP population

Institution

Status 1.1.

2013

Born To EEP From EEP To non-EEP

From non-EEP

Died Status 1.1.

2014

Ahtari/FIN 3.2 - 0.1 Cezallier - - - - 3.1

Bardu/N 0.1 - - - - - - 0.1

Berlin TP/D 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

Borås/S 1.1 2.1 0.1 Orsa1.0 Cezallier

Brno/CZ 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

Burford/UK 2.3 - 1.0 Munich 0.1 Hluboka - - - - 1.2

Calviac/F 1.1 0.1 - - - - - 1.2

Cezallier/F* - - - 0.1 Ahtari 1.0 Boras - - - 1.1

Chomutov/CZ 1.1 - - - - - 1.0 0.1

Duisburg/D 2.2 - 0.1 Kerkrade - - - - 2.1

Eberswalde/D 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

Edinburgh/UK 1.1 - 1.1 Kingussie - - - - -

Helsinki/FIN 0.1 - - - - - 0.1 -

Hluboka/CZ* - - - 0.1 Burford - - - 0.1

Hunnebostrand/S 2.2 2.1 0.1 Minnesota - - - 1.0 3.2

Järvsö/S 2.2 1.0 - - - - - 3.2

Kerkrade/NL 1.0 - - 0.1 Duisburg - - - 1.1

Kinguisse/UK* - - - 1.1 Edinburgh - - - 1.1

Kolmården/S 1.1 2.0.1 1.0 Minnesota - - - 0.0.1 2.1

Kristiansand/N 1.1 3.0 - - - - - 4.1

Lycksele/S 1.2 - - 1.0 Stockholm - - 1.0 1.2

Minnesota/USA* - - - 1.0 Kolmarden0.1 Hunnebostrand - - - 1.1

Moscow/RUS 9.81) - 0.1 Novosibirsk - 1.0 Izhevsk 1.0 wild 2.0 7.7

Munich/D 1.1 - - 1.0 Burford - - 1.0 1.1

Namsskogan/N 1.0 - - - - - - 1.0

Nikolaev/UKR 0.1 - - - - - - 0.1

Novosibirsk/RUS 1.1 - - 0.1 Moscow - 0.1 - 1.3

Opole/POL 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

Orsa/S 1.1 - - 0.1 Boras - - 0.1 1.1

Osnabruck/D 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

Ranua/FIN 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

Riga/LAT 0.1 - - - - - 0.1 -

Salzburg/A 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

Skåne/S 3.1 - - - - - 1.0 2.1

Springe/D 1.12) - - - - - - 1.1

Stockholm/S 2.1 - 1.0 Lycksele - - - - 1.1

Szeged/HU 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

Usti/CZ 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

Whipsnade/UK 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

I EEP(36 institutions)

48.47 3)

(95)10.3.1(14)

5.7(12)

5.7(12)

1.0(1)

1.1(2)

7.3.1(11)

51.48(99)

Key: 1.0 = 1 male, 0.1 = 1 female * Indicates new participant parks

1) Previously given as 9.92) Previously given as 1.23) Previously given as 48.49

Table 1. Wolverine population development in EEP/Europe during 2013

35

luscus in North America combined with a surplus of wolverine kits being produced within the EEP. The wolverine has always been scarce in North American parks and the largest population was that of 2002, when the North American continent had 31 individuals (Ness 2013). Regular breeding has been rare since then, and by 2013 the population had sunk to 16 individuals. In order to revive its wolverine population, the PMP decided to keep both wolverine sub-species, though separately with no hybridisation. For the European breeding programme, however, there is no reason to depart from the decision to hold only the nominate form. Wolverine kits are produced every year in Europe and new potential members are invited to contact the EEP co-ordinator without delay. Minnesota Zoo joined the EEP in 2013 and received a young wolverine pair from Nordens Ark and Kolmården, while Columbus Zoo in Ohio will join in 2014. A pair from Calviac and Borås has already been reserved for Columbus.

Sweden is the wolverine’s strongest foothold in EuropeIn Sweden and Norway, an inventory of the wild wolverine population is made every year during late winter by recording the number of litters and using tracking and DNA analysis to complete the information. In both countries, the populations have increased this century vis à vis the number of litters, at the same time as the range has expanded further and further south of the reindeer-herding region. The rise in numbers has been most marked in Sweden, which is today the wolverine’s strongest foothold

in Europe. Statistics from Finland are not as reliable, but the increase has been far smaller than that in Norway and Sweden (Figure 3). Predator surveys carried out for the WWF in Sweden (Persson 2011) and Finland (Kojola et al. 2011) indicate that extensive illegal hunting of wolverines is continuing and is responsible for a large proportion of mortalities among wolverine adults. It is likely that illegal hunting has prevented the Finnish wolverine population from making the kind of recovery seen in the other Nordic contries.

The wolverine is a solitary animal with a large territory, and it’s difficult and costly to obtain precise estimates of size and density of the populations. To get a more accurate estimate of the wolverine population, and to develop a long-term plan for the future management of predators in Scandinavia, there is an urgent need for closer co-operation with Finland. The authorities in Norway, Sweden and Finland were recently asked to develop a common strategy for

Non-EEP- populationInstitution

Status 1.1.

2013

Born To EEP From EEP To non-EEP

From non-EEP

Died Status 1.1.

2014

Bielefeld/D 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

Fuerstenwalde/D 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

Izhevsk/RUS 1.1 1.0 Moscow 1.1

Krasnoyarsk/RUS 0.1 0.1

Nizhny Novgorod/RUS 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

Sababurg/D 1.1 - - - - - - 1.1

In Non-EEP:(6 institutions)

5.6 - - 1.0 - - - 5.6

intensified collaboration over the future management of the predator strains. One can only hope this will reinforce co-operation between the relevant agencies and will in time involve their Russian counterparts. National boundaries don’t concern the wolverine, and its management should be a task for the whole of Scandinavia.

ReferencesBlomqvist, L. (2013): Number of Wolverines

in EEP Approaches 100 Individuals. Nordens Ark Annual Report 2012: 21–25. Nordens Ark Foundation.

Bröseth, H., M. Tovmo (2013): Breeding Record of Wolverines in Norway in 2013. NINA Rapport 981 (in Norwegian with English summary).

Kojola, I. et al. (2011): Ahmojen salakaadot Suomessa WWF Finland (Finnish)

Ness, T. (2013): AZA Regional Studbook Wolverine (Gulo gulo sp.). Minnesota Zoo

Persson, J. (2011): Illegal Hunting of Large Predators in Sweden. WWF Report. 2011.

2013201020052000

1 200

300

900

600

Figure 3.Development of the wild wolverine populationin the Nordic countries 2000–2013

Total

Finland

Sweden

Norway

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Important events during and after the financial yearNordens Ark Foundation marked its 25th year of operations in 2013, and the 25th anniversary of the park’s opening is being celebrated in 2014. King Carl XVI Gustaf officiated at the inauguration and appointed Crown Princess Victoria as Nordens Ark’s patron.The Foundation was created with the objective of working to save endangered animals. The festivities on June 14, 2014, will be both a celebration and a declaration of the efforts we have made over the past 25 years.

Last year was the third year in a four-year maintenance and investment plan. All signs in the park have been renewed and the educational stations for children replaced. Pastureland around the Farm has been improved and the Wetlands house remodelled, as well as the equine house and wolf and Tadjik markhor enclosures. The jewel in the crown of the 2014 celebrations will be Nordens Ark’s engagement in saving the Persian leopard, with a breeding pair in a newly built enclosure. Construction of the enclosure began at the end of 2013 after financing was secured.

A significant zoological event in 2013 was the birth of three cubs to the Amur tigers. Since the female came from the wild and is a so-called ‘founder’, this is an extremely valuable addition to the zoo park population. The youngsters will remain at Nordens Ark until the autumn of 2014. Then they will be transferred in accordance with the studbook keeper’s directions to other zoos to form new breeding pairs, and to allow our female to become pregnant again.

The snow leopards reproduced, too. And earlier in the year there were births for the wolverines, red pandas, European ground squirrels and white-naped cranes, which bred for the first time.

All this resulted in excellent visitor figures for the first half of July. Then came a heatwave, which showed once again that it’s not wise to budget on a high number of visitors. On the other hand, gifts, donations, sponsorships, members, adopters, foundations and funds are not influenced by the weather.

Sixteen white-backed woodpeckers and 12 peregrine falcons were released into the wild,

while a record 49 lesser white-fronted geese, born to our Russian breeding birds, were placed out in the Arjeplog mountains. Four white storks born in 2013 were due to be released in Skåne.

Two new bird species arrived in the late autumn: hoopoe and European roller. They will be placed in the northern bald ibis enclosure in spring 2014.

Measures implemented as collaborative projects with agencies and organisationsDuring 2013, an international conservation project focusing on endangered beetles linked to old deciduous trees began to take shape. The project will be run in conjunction with the county administrative boards in Kalmar and Linköping, as well as various institutions in Denmark, Germany and Poland. In the course of 2013, an EU LIFE application was drawn up through workshops and meetings in Copenhagen and Warsaw and at Nordens Ark. The idea is for the project to run for five or six years, with funding from the EU.

Nordens Ark’s scientific leaders took part in RCE (Regional Centre of Expertise) meetings to develop a network for ‘education for sustainable development’.

Nordens Ark has committed itself to a new species, the common tree frog from Central America, in connection with which we participated in a genetic research study, visited a model facility in Manchester and took part in a research trip to Panama. From autumn 2014, Nordens Ark will keep a back-up population of common tree frogs at the rebuilt laboratory adjacent to Annedal. New windows are planned to allow visitors to see what’s going on.

As part of the tiger project in the Russian Far East, a field trip to the Anuisky National Park was made in May by Nordens Ark’s MD and the general secretary of WWF Sweden. The objective was to assess the measures our Russian counterparts had agreed to carry out. A Russian delegation from the project visited Nordens Ark and northern Finland during the autumn to find out more about ecotourism and veterinary issues.

The European zoo organisation EAZA undertakes regular thorough reviews of its 350-odd member parks. Nordens Ark was

Administration Report 2013The Board and Managing Director of Nordens Ark Foundation herewith present the following report for the financial year 2013. All sums are given in Swedish kronor (SEK) unless stated otherwise. Figures in parentheses are for the previous year.

ANNUAL REPORT 2013

picture tom svensson

annual report 2013

37

assessed in accordance with this policy and was given top marks in all respects, barring a few remarks.

Nordens Ark Ecopark projectA feed storage hall has been built next to the barn for suckling calves added in 2012. Fencing proceeded according to plan and cattle grids were installed in four places. This enabled all the paddocks to be grazed, with the exception of the pasture by the ravine, which wasn’t ready until November. A new section of the hiking path, starting in this ravine, was completed. Meadow restoration began in eight different locations, and a survey of fauna will be undertaken at the same time. Work on the Ecopark is on schedule.

Educational activitiesNordens Ark has an established partnership with the University of Gothenburg (GU) and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) at Skara. On behalf of GU, Nordens Ark and Gothenburg Natural History Museum will jointly conduct training in conservation biology and communication, equivalent to 15 college points. Nordens Ark lectures regularly at GU. As in previous years, SLU has based parts of its courses at Nordens Ark. In association with University West at Trollhättan, Nordens Ark staff received training in rhetoric and drama. Uppsala University based some of its research preparatory training in conservation biology at Nordens Ark.

There is a well-developed collaboration with various upper secondary schools, especially those in Uddevalla, with classes on a weekly basis. We also work closely with Viktoria school and Hulebäck upper secondary school in Gothenburg, as well as with agricultural colleges such as Dingle, Realgymnasiet and Munkagård.

Pre-schoolNordens Ark’s Djur och skur pre-school has been run as planned. The pre-school has 18 child-care places. The staff comprise three teachers and a part-time cook. During 2013, the staff received training in the Association for the Promotion of Outdoor Life Ur och Skur teaching method. The pre-school is popular and the child-care waiting list still long.

Visitor operationsThe parkThe number of visitors to the park in 2013 was about seven per cent lower than expected, probably because of the hot weather during part of the high season.

Work on new signage in the park continued, and a large number of new species signs have been put up. There are new direction signs to help our guests find their

way around, and information boards to tell them about our conservation projects outside Nordens Ark.

A tall information facility for visitors has been erected inside one of the wolf enclosures. This allows us to educate and to give useful information about wolves and their history, and about the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency’s official wolf project.

Visitor programmesNordens Ark Hotel celebrated its tenth anniversary on May 10 with a well-attended public programme in and around the hotel.

The number of ‘hotel packages’ and guided tours increased during the year. Some offers were promoted together with the Gothenburg Post’s Läsvärdet, and these were fully booked. The popular promotions included Christmas dinner, mother’s and father’s day guided tours with meal, a tiger weekend and family packages.

It makes a big difference that these offers can be booked via our website.

During the summer visitor programme, a further step was taken in our work to improve and explain the field projects we are involved in. Visitors were able to see the peregrine falcons being fed and learn about our work behind the scenes at the Lunden breeding site.

Hotel and caféHotel occupancy for private bookings was significantly higher than in the previous year. The number of both conference and student overnight stays fell slightly.

Café sales increased marginally on 2012, while raw material costs were a little lower.

Staff costs were somewhat higher than expected. Overall, the business improved its profits by about 55 per cent compared with 2012. The financial results for the parts of the business covered by the management agreement with Sodexo were positive.

Shop salesSales in the shop during the year were rather higher than expected. Net income rose by 21 per cent on 2012.

Communications and mediaIn the spring, both the Amur tigers and snow leopards produced triplets. Webcams in the dens allowed us to show live video on our website. The chance to follow the cubs during their early period in the dens was much appreciated, and there was a big increase in visitors to the website.

Nordens Ark had the unique opportunity to be part of Julstaden Göteborg (Gothenburg – Christmas City), with a short film projected on to the façade of Gothenburg Museum of Art in Götaplatsen throughout December. The film was shown 185 times and seen by about 75,000 people.

Our Facebook page evolved during 2013 and the number of followers increased steadily. At year’s end, there were about 5,500, with good feedback on our posts.

Ahead of Nordens Ark’s 25th anniversary celebrations in 2014, planning for the festivities and activities began and intensified towards the end of the year. An anniversary calendar with historical picture and texts has been produced and went on sale in the autumn.

A collaboration began with TV4 West and Nordens Ark’s first TV commercial was screened during the summer, urging people to support our activities. A further film was broadcast in December. Gifts and donations certainly increased in the second half of 2013, but it is hard to say if this was a result of the TV advert.

StaffThe number of employees during the year was 56, comprising 31 women and 25 men. Additional staff are taken on during the peak season. Altogether, 105 people have been employed during the year.

The number of annual workers was 54, of which 52 per cent were women and 48 per cent men.

Seventy-five thousand people saw Nordens Ark’s commercial at Götaplatsen in central Gothenburg during December 2013.picture dick gillberg

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Environmental reportNordens Ark Foundation has been an Environmental Diploma enterprise since 2010. We have an environmental management system in accordance with the relevant regulations, and passed the annual re-evaluation with flying colours. Environmental objectives have been updated and amended to make the best of our natural advantages.During the year, the heating in another building was changed from electricity to a heat pump system. An internet-based chemical registry has been acquired. The business has reduced its paper consumption by more than ten per cent. Fuel consumption has, however, not been reduced.

Partners and sponsorsNordens Ark Foundation has had scientific partnerships with the University of Gothenburg and Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences for the past ten years.

Volvo Trucks and the Gothenburg Post have been our partners for many years. In 2013, Volvo AB became principal sponsor of Nordens Ark’s investment in a Russian project that aims to strengthen the wild population of the Persian leopard. Volvo AB is the main financial backer of our new breeding facility for Persian leopards which will be inaugurated during the anniversary celebrations in June 2014.

The number of sponsors has not changed in recent years. They contribute with much appreciated goods, services and financial help. Gifts and donationsSince its launch in 2005, the Postcode Lottery has awarded 4.9 billion kronor to the voluntary sector. Together with its sister lotteries in Holland and Great Britain, the Postcode Lottery is the world’s second-largest private donor to non-profit organisations.Nordens Ark has received 18 million kronor since 2010, seven million of it in 2013. On top of that, the Postcode Lottery contributed 5.3 million kronor to the ‘Special Amur tiger project’ run in conjunction with the WWF.

The members’ group Friends of Nordens Ark made a donation of one million kronor, as well as contributing with hundreds of hours of voluntary work. The number of members was about 4,500. The group is a not-for-profit organisation and is independent of Nordens Ark. Nordens Ark’s offices help with administrative services.

Foundations and fundsThe Swiss Segré Foundation, whose headquarters are in Geneva, contributed for the second year running to our efforts to breed and release threatened Nordic animals. The Erna and Victor Hasselblad Foundation has financed Nordens Ark’s professorship in conservation biology at the University of Gothenburg since 2006, as well as an annual research college. This year the college was run with Sotenäs municipality as part of the biennial Scandinavian nature film festival, with communication as the theme. Thuréus Forskarhem made a financial contribution to the scientific work with Nordic animals. The Thordén Foundation helped with the development of our educational activities. The Erik and Lily Philipson Memorial Fund contributed funds towards the development of the Ecopark.

Swedish Fundraising Control and Swedish Fundraising CouncilNordens Ark Foundation holds a 90-account and is therefore audited by the Swedish Fundraising Control. To qualify for a 90-account, at least 75 per cent of money raised must reach its intended beneficiary. Nordens Ark’s collection and administration costs were 11 per cent during the year, so 89 per cent of funds reached their target.

The Foundation is a member of the Swedish Fundraising Council (FRII), which is a trade association of voluntary organisations holding a 90-account. Members must report yearly on how they have followed FRII’s Code of Ethics. Beneficiaries of the Swedish Postcode Lottery are required to be members of FRII.

The work of the Board in 2013The Board has held four meetings and run a board seminar.• StrategyseminarinJanuary• FinalaccountsmeetinginMarch• Informationmeetinginpreparationforthe

public season• Monitoringandevaluationoftheyear’s

activities in September• DeterminationoftheAnimalCollection

and operational plans, as well as the budget, in December

Consideration of the Board’s and MD’s instructions

Earnings and financial positionThe Foundation’s revenues The Foundation’s total revenues amounted to 50.9 million kronor (51.5 million kronor). Of this sum, funds from the general public made up 7.9 million kronor (6.9 million kronor) and funds raised from companies and organisations 19.3 million kronor (20.5 million kronor), with the Postcode Lottery contributing 7.0 million kronor (7.0 million kronor). Revenue from the sale of goods and services amounted to 10.2 million kronor (10.3 million kronor). Other income totalled 13.5 million kronor (13.8 million kronor), of which 12.4 million kronor (12.9 million kronor) was from admission charges.

Operating costs and expenses The Foundation’s operating costs totalled 50.5 million kronor (49.1 million kronor). Of this sum, direct project costs amounted to 36.8 million kronor (35.1 million kronor). This increase is due largely to higher costs for the repair and maintenance of animal enclosures. Fundraising and administration costs were slightly less than the previous year and came to 4.4 million kronor (4.6 million kronor).

Net income and general positionNet income for 2013 totalled 0.3 million kronor (2.2 million kronor). Profits fell by 1.9 million kronor. The reason for this drop in income is increased costs for maintenance and improvements, in line with Board decisions, and lower income from admission charges. The Foundation’s financial position is sound. Equity ratio amounted to 44.6 per cent.

InvestmentsThe year’s total investments amounted to 6.5 million kronor (8.7 million kronor), 2.2 million kronor (3.8 million kronor) of which was self-funded.

External investments in the Ecopark project came from Region Västra Götaland and the Erik and Lily Philipson Foundation. Under the heading of self-financed investments, the following projects have been completed or are ongoing: construction of Tadjik markhor enclosure, new road to the Farm, improvements to pastureland around the Farm, investment in water supply, quarantine enclosure for hoofed animals, and

Overview (000s kronor) 2013 2012 2011 2010

The Foundation’s revenues 50,929 51,517 42,749 46,221Income after financial items 294 2,229 - 1,561 2,741Operating margin 0.9 % 4.6 % neg 6.1 %Balance sheet total 41,297 36,654 34,652 28,198Equity ratio 44.6 % 49.4 % 45.9 % 61.9 %

annual report 2013

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Income statement

01-01-2013 01-01-2012Figures in Swedish kronor Note 31-12-2013 31-12-2012

The Foundation’s revenues Sales of goods and services 1 10,218,253 10,296,605Other external revenues Gifts and contributions from the public 7,923,259 6,861,215Contributions from organisations, authorities and companies 2 19,312,492 20,532,704Admission charges 12,433,698 12,872,206Other operating revenues 1,041,684 953,810

Total 50 929 386 51 516 540 Operating costs and expenses 3 Operating and administrative expenses -22,757,039 -21,426,954Employee costs 4 -26,350,744 -26,337,409Depreciation and write-downs on tangible and intangible fixed assets 5 -1 389 213 -1,385,381

-50,496,996 -49,149,744Operating income 432,390 2,366,796 Financial items Interest income 6 33,122 96,393Interest expense -171,050 -234,171

Income after financial items 294,462 2,229,018 Tax on net income for the year 0 0

Net income for the year 294,462 2,229,018

completion of bio-safe breeding facility for amphibians. Planned investments were made in vehicles, machinery and equipment.

Definition of key ratiosOperating marginOperating income as a percentage of total sales Equity ratioAdjusted equity as a percentage of the balance sheet total

Allocation of profit/lossThis year’s net income of 294,462 kronor will be carried forward. The equity capital will then amount to 18,411,342 kronor.

For the Foundation’s net income and general position, please refer to the income statement and balance sheet with accompanying notes that follow.

40

Balance sheet

Figures in Swedish kronor Note 31-12-2013 31-12-2012

ASSETS

Fixed assets

Tangible fixed assets 5 Buildings and land 8,723,897 8,787,568Land improvement 14,386,931 11,382,418Equipment, tools and

other installations 1,207,394 1,558,146Animals 100,000 100,000Ongoing new construction 1,387,010 3,130,230

Total fixed assets 25,805,232 24,958,362 Current assets Inventories etc Inventories 1,030,519 979,375

1,030,519 979,375Current receivables Accounts receivable 2,548,167 1,412,439Tax refund claim 223,869 341,231Other receivables 7,161,654 981,947Prepaid expenses and

accrued income 7 1,878,623 3,935,372

11,812,313 6,670,989 Short-term investments 247,081 205,390

247,081 205,390 Cash in hand and bank deposits 2,401,992 3,839,572

Total current assets 15,491,905 11,695,326

Total assets 41,297,137 36,653,688

Figures in Swedish kronor Note 31-12-2013 31-12-2012

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

Equity capital 8

Restricted equity Foundation fund 24,500 24,500

24,500 24,500 Unrestricted equity Unappropriated retained earnings 18,092,380 15,863,362Net income for the year 294,462 2,229,018

18,386,842 18,092,380Total equity 18,411,342 18,116,880 Long-term liabilities Debt to credit institutions 9 4,050,000 4,150,000Prepaid revenue 10 6,535,483 0Other long-term liabilities 0 576,675

Total long-term liabilities 10,585,483 4,726,675 Current liabilities Bank advances 11 1,700,516 3,828,093Accounts payable 3,738,065 2,094,631Other current liabilities 1,156,464 1,726,013Total accrued expenses

and prepaid revenue 12 5,705,267 6,161,396

Total current liabilities 12,300,312 13,810,133

Total equity and liabilities 41,297,137 36,653,688

Figures in Swedish kronorr Note 31-12-2013 31-12-2012

Pledged securities and contingent liabilities

Pledged securities 13 10,500,000 10,500,000

annual report 2013

41

Cash flow analysis

01-01-2013 01-01-2012Figures in Swedish kronor 31-12-2013 31-12-2012

Current operations Operating income 432,390 2,366,796

Adjustments for non-cash items Depreciation and write-downs 1,389,213 1,385,381

Capital gain from sale of equipment 64,000 -25,000 Financial income 33,122 96,393Interest paid -171,050 -234,171

Cash flow from current operations 1,747,675 3,589,399 before changes in operating capital Changes in operating capital Changes in inventories -51,144 -138,732Changes in receivables -5,141,324 -129,482Changes in current liabilities -903,896 1,279,783

Cash flow from current operations -4,348,689 4,600,968 Investment operations Acquisition of tangible fixed assets -6,510,319 -8,735,300Sale of equipment -64,000 25,000Contributions received 4,274,236 4,981,940

Cash flow from investment operations -2,300,083 -3,728,360 Financing operationsRepayment of debt 6,535,483 0Repayment of debt -1,282,600 -1,507,600

Cash flow from financing operations 5,252,883 -1,507,600

Cash flow for the year -1 395,889 -634,992

Liquid funds at the beginning of the year1 4,044,962 4,679,954Liquid funds at the end of the year1 2,649,073 4,044,962

1Liquid funds comprise cash in hand and bank deposits and short-term investments.

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GeneralThe Annual Report has been prepared in accordance with the terms of the Annual Accounts Act and the recommendations and guidelines of the Swedish Financial Accounting Standards Board and the Swedish Fundraising Council’s template for annual reports. The Annual Report also includes certain information required by the Swedish Fundraising Control.

Changes in accounting principlesThe accounting principles are unchanged from the previous accounting year.

Operating revenuesRevenues are taken up at the actual value that has been or will be received. The main principle is that gifts and contributions are reported when the gift has been legally completed. This means that gifts made principally by members of the public are reported on a cash basis. Funds collected from companies and organisations are normally reported in the period that the donation is paid. This also applies to funds from the Postcode Lottery.

Contributions agreed but not yet received at year-end are reported according to an individual assessment in the final accounts. Where funds received have been accepted subject to a proviso that they be used for a specific purpose and have not been fully used by the end of the financial year, they are reported as prepaid income in the final accounts. The funds are reversed when the funds are used and they are then taken up as operating income. Support relating to the acquisition of fixed assets reduces the asset’s acquisition value. This means that the asset is reported at its net acquisition value, which constitutes the basis for calculating the depreciation. The figures for the year’s gross acquisition value and support received are given in the relevant note.

Sales of goods and services are reported as income in the period the income occurs. Sales of envelope stickers, postcards and similar items are reported when the payment is received.

Operating costs and expensesThe Foundation’s operating costs and expenses consist of direct project costs, fundraising costs and administrative expenses. The Foundation’s income statement is classified by nature of expense, and details of direct project costs, fundraising costs and administrative expenses can be found in the appropriate notes.

Accounting and valuation principles and notes

Direct project costsDirect project costs comprise the Foundation’s costs for rescuing and preserving endangered species, and for information, research and educational activities. Costs directly linked to complying with the paragraph on direct projects in the Foundation’s statutes are classified as direct project costs. Shared costs distributed over the direct project costs are also classified as direct project costs.

Fundraising costsFundraising costs are direct costs relating to fundraising efforts directed at donors, i.e. revenues in the form of gifts, bequests and donations. The work includes both current donors and efforts to find new ones. Fundraising costs comprise both direct costs such as the collection staff’s salaries and shared costs distributed over the fundraising costs.

Administrative expensesAdministrative expenses comprise the costs incurred in administering Nordens Ark. These include, for example, administrative systems, wages and salaries for administrative staff, premises and audits.

Assets and liabilitiesAssets, allocations and liabilities are taken up at acquisition value unless stated otherwise.

InventoriesInventories are valued according to the lower of cost and market principle, using the first-in first-out (FIFO) method. This means that inventories are taken up at the lower of acquisition value according to the FIFO method and real (market) value. A standard deduction of 3% has been made for obsolescence. Valuation of animals comprises the animals owned by the Foundation. The zoological park’s operations also include animals that the Foundation does not own but has at its disposal as so-called breeding loans. The value of these animals is far in excess of the value of the zoological park’s own animals. New animals resulting from these operations have not been taken up.

Tangible fixed assetsTangible fixed assets are taken up at acquisition value less accumulated depreciation and any write-downs. Depreciation according to plan is based on original acquisition values and estimated life.

A write-down is made where impairment of value is permanent. Land is not depreciated.

The following depreciation periods are used:Buildings – 50 yearsEnclosures and facilities – 20 yearsEquipment, tools and other installations – 5 years

The difference between the above depreciation and depreciations made for tax purposes is reported as over-/under-depreciation, which is included in untaxed reserves.

Income taxThe tax for the current financial year as it is reported in the income statement contains the tax costs or tax revenues. Deferred tax is not reported separately if it is only the balance sheet item Untaxed reserves that entails deferred tax. Deferred tax refund claims are reported only if there is a very high probability that they can be legally set off against tax liabilities.

Average number of employeesThe average number of employees has been calculated by dividing the total number of hours worked during the financial year by an average number of working hours based on the average of the Foundation’s blue-collar and white-collar staff’s working hours.

annual report 2013

43

Notes

Note 1 Sales of goods and services The figure represents income from hotel, shop and cafeteria sales, as well as the sale of woodland. Net income from hotel, shop and cafeteria sales amounts to 869,000 kronor (576,000 kronor). Income from the sale of woodland amounts to 0 kronor (83,000 kronor).

Note 2 Contributions from organisations and companiesOf the total amount received from organisations and companies, 7,000,000 kronor (7,000,000 kronor) was received from the Postcode Lottery. The sum of 2,500,000 kronor (3,500,000 kronor) was received from the Nordens Ark fundraising foundation.

Note 3 Operating costs and expensesFundraising costs, administrative expenses and direct project costs reported according to the Swedish Fundraising Control’s guidelines amount to: 2013 2012Direct costs in connection with goods and services 9,285,539 9,399,736Other fundraising costs 1,600,771 1,616,066Administrative expenses 2,815,146 2,996,929Direct project costs 36,795,540 35,137,013Total 50,496,996 49,149,744

Note 4 Employee costs Average number of employees 31-12-2013 31-12-2012

Men 21 23Women 22 24Male seasonal staff 5 2Female seasonal staff 7 8Total 55 57

Wages and salaries, other remunerations and social costs Board and Managing Director 995,153 940,071Other employees 17,850,823 17,568,371Total 18,845,976 18,508,442 Social costs Pension contributions for the Board and Managing Director 670,691 905,505Pension contributions for other staff 1,086,206 986,016Social security contributions 5,902,113 5,855,398Total 7,659,010 7,746,919 If the MD’s employment is terminated by the Foundation, the MD will receive severance pay equivalent to 12 months’ pay. The amount will be reduced if the MD finds other employment within a period of 12 months.

Distribution by gender 31-12-2013 31-12-2012

Distribution of men and women on the Board: Women 4 4Men 7 7

Distribution of men and women on the management team:Women 3 3Men 3 3

44

Note 5 Depreciation of tangible assetsBuildings and land 31-12-2013 31-12-2012

Acquisition value at beginning of year 9,730,054 9,704,379Purchases 0 25,675Accumulated acquisition value at end of year 9,730,054 9 ,730,054

Accumulated depreciation at beginning of year -942,486 -879,201Depreciation for the year -63,671 -63,285Accumulated depreciation at end of year -1,006,157 -942,486

Book value 8,723,897 8,787,568

Accumulated contributions amount to 28,609,791 (28,609,791) kronor. Land improvement 31-12-2013 31-12-2012

Acquisition value at beginning of year 29,384,104 27,508,672Purchases 2,645,512 1,875,432Reclassification of investment 2,449,950 0Reclassification of contributions -509,947 0Contributions -1,000,000 0Accumulated acquisition value at end of year 32,969,619 29,384,104 Accumulated depreciation at beginning of year -18,001,686 -17,462,982Depreciation for the year -581,002 -538,704Accumulated depreciation at end of year -18,582,688 -18,001,686

Book value 14,386,931 11,382,418

Accumulated contributions amount to 38,500,121 (36,990,174) kronor. Equipment, tools and other installations 31-12-2013 31-12-2012

Acquisition value at beginning of year 9,308,007 8,858,260Purchases 781,922 630,252Divestments/scrapping 0 -56,000Contributions -388,136 -124,505Accumulated acquisition value at end of year 9,701,793 9,308,007 Accumulated depreciation at beginning of year -7,749,857 -7,022,465Divestments/scrapping 0 56,000Depreciation for the year -744,542 -783,392Accumulated depreciation at end of year -8,494,399 -7,749,857

Book value 1,207,394 1,558,150

Accumulated contribution amounts to 1,548,100 (1,159,963) kronor. Animals 31-12-2013 31-12-2012

Acquisition value at beginning of year 520,418 520,418Accumulated acquisition value at end of year 520,418 520,418

Accumulated depreciation at beginning of year -420,418 -420,418Accumulated depreciation at end of year -420,418 -420,418

Book value 100,000 100,000 Ongoing new construction 31-12-2013 31-12-2012

Acquisition value at beginning of year 3,130,230 1,783,724Purchases 3,082,885 6,203,941Contributions -2,886,103 -4,857,435Reclassification of investment -2,449,950 0Reclassification of contributions 509,948 0Accumulated acquisition value at end of year 1,387,010 3,130,230

Book value 1,387,010 3,130,230

Accumulated contribution amounts to 9,010,937 (6,634,512) kronor.

annual report 2013

45

Note 6 Financial income 31-12-2013 31-12-2012Interest 33,122 70,625Payments 25,768

Total 33,122 96,393

Note 7 Prepaid expenses and accrued income 31-12-2013 31-12-2012Prepaid insurance premiums 89,384 51,640Prepaid expenses 143,164 253,513Accrued contributions 1,166,430 2,259,817Accrued revenue 479,645 1,370,402

Total accrued expenses and prepaid revenue 1,878,623 3,935,372

Note 8 Equity capital Foundation Unappropriated Net income Totalt fund retained earnings for the yearTotal at beginning of year 24,500 15,863,362 2,229,018 18,116,880Transfer of retained earnings 2 229,018 -2,229,018 0Net income for the year 294,462 294,462Total at end of year 24,500 18,092,380 294,462 18,411,342

Note 9 Long-term liabilities Maturity date Debt Debt at Within Between one Over 12-31-2013 one year and five years five years

Debt to credit institutions 4,050,000 100,000 400,000 3,550,000Total 4,050,000 100,000 400,000 3,550,000

Note 10 Long-term prepaid revenue 31-12-2013 31-12-2012Bequests received with preconditions 7,035,483 0Funds used as per conditions -500,000 0

Total accrued expenses and prepaid revenue 6,535,483 0

Note 11 Bank advances 31-12-2013 31-12-2012Credit granted in the form of bank overdraft facilities 9,000,000 5,000,000

Note 12 Total accrued expenses and prepaid revenue 31-12-2013 31-12-2012Accrued holiday pay 2,149,944 2,028,486Accrued social contributions 1,199,648 1,139,056Prepaid revenue 705,749 743,966Prepaid contributions 753,811 1,424,427Other items 896,115 825,461

Total accrued expenses and prepaid revenue 5,705,267 6,161,396

Not 13 Pledged securities 31-12-2013 31-12-2012Corporate mortgages 5,500,000 5,500,000Real estate mortgages 5,000,000 5,000,000

Total pledged securities 10,500,000 10,500,000

46

Audit report

To the Board of Nordens Ark Foundation Org. No. 854600-6191

We have audited the annual accounts for Nordens Ark Foundation for the year 2013 (financial year 01-01-2013 to 31-12-2013).

The Board´s responsibility for the annual accountsThe Board has the responsibility for preparing annual accounts that give a true and fair view according to the Annual Accounts Act, and for internal controls deemed necessary by the Board to compile annual accounts free of material misstatement, whether due to irregularities or errors.

The auditor’s responsibility Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the annual accounts based on our audit. We have carried out our audit in accordance with the International Standards on Auditing and with generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden. Those standards demand that we comply with professional ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance that the annual accounts are free of material misstatement. An audit includes acquiring by various measures audit evidence relating to sums and other information in the annual accounts. The auditor selects which actions to perform, including assessing the risks of material misstatements in the annual accounts, whether due to irregularities or errors. In this risk assessment, the auditor takes into account those internal controls that are relevant to how the Board prepares the annual accounts in order to give a true and fair view, with the aim of designing inspection measures appropriate to the circumstances, but not with the aim of commenting on the effectiveness of the Board’s internal controls. An audit also includes an evaluation of the suitability of the auditing principles used and of the reasonableness of the Board’s estimates in the report, as well as an evaluation of the overall presentation of the annual accounts. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate as the basis for our statement.

StatementWe believe that the annual accounts have been compiled in accordance with the Annual Accounts Act and give a view of the Foundation’s financial

position as at December 31, 2013, and of its financial results and cash flow for the year, that is true and fair in all material respects in accordance with the Annual Accounts Act.

Statement on other requirements according to laws and statutesIn addition to our audit of the annual accounts, we have examined the Board’s administration of Nordens Ark Foundation for the year 2013 (financial year 01-01-2013 to 31-12-2013).

The Board’s responsibilityThe Board is responsible for the administration in accordance with the law governing foundations and the deed of foundation.

The auditor’s responsibilityOur responsibility is to express with reasonable confidence an opinion on whether our inspection found that any board member acted in contravention of the law governing foundations or the deed of foundation. We have carried out our audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden.

As a basis for our statement concerning the administration, we have, in addition to our audit of the annual accounts, examined significant decisions, actions taken and the circumstances of the Foundation in order to determine the liability, if any, to the Foundation of any Board member and whether there be any cause for dismissal. We have also examined whether any Board member acted in any other way in contravention of the law governing foundations or the deed of foundation. We consider that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate as the basis for our statement.

StatementThe Board members have not acted in contravention with the law governing foundations or the deed of foundation. Gothenburg, 27 March 2014

Eva From Yvonne WernebjerAuthorised public Elected accountantaccountant

47

annual report 2013

Audit report

48

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chairman of the Board Göran Bengtsson

Deputy Chairman Sven Eckerstein Margareta Wallin Peterson

Board membersPege Schelander, senior adviser VattenvårdsförbundetLeif Nilsson, contractor Christer PetrénSusanne Wiklund, solicitor Rosengrens AdvokatbyråPål Svensson, sculptorStefan Nilsson, professor emeritus zoophysiology, University of GothenburgElisabeth Tarras-Wahlberg, KreabStaffan JuforsLena M Lindén, MD Nordens ArkThomas Crusner, co-opted member

AUDITORS

Eva From, Ernst & Young ABYvonne Wernebjer, Fyrbodal kommunalförbund

Deputy AuditorLars Olehäll, Ernst & Young AB

Board of directors, auditors & staff

STAFF

Managing Director Lena M LindénPersonal Assistant Therese Patriksson Deputy Managing Director Bo Norming Scientific Leader Claes AndrénDirector of Communications Nina Lindberg Hamn Ecopark Project Mats NiklassonSnow Leopard Project Örjan JohanssonZoologist Leif Blomqvist Zoological Assistant Ewa WikbergCurator Linnéa Johansson

Head Keepers Emil Gunnarsson, Susanne Geisen, Ingela Andersson, Anders Torstensson (temporary)

Project Leader Christer Larsson

Zookeepers Maria Hallenberg, Dick Liljegren, John Söderlindh, Mia Abrahamsson, Josefin Hansson, Sandra Josefsson, Sara Hedvall, Kristofer Försäter, Catarina Tengroth, John Uno, Emma Nygren, Jimmy Helgesson, Elin Eriksson-Byröd, Sverker Thoresson, Karin Larsson, Anna Einemo, Linda Svensson, David Carlgren, Emil Gunnarsson, Julie Östergaard Poulsen (temporary),

Stina Öqvist (temporary), Camilla Schratz (temporary), Kenneth Emil Christensen (temporary)

Registered Veterinarians of Nordens Ark Foundation Sune Gregorius, Bo Runsten

Education Eva Andersson, Pelle Karlsson, Björn Johansson, Patrik Swede, Lorina Stenwall Jonasson

Buildings Hans Håkansson, Åke Gustavsson, Alf Hjelm, Pernilla Knuthsen, Sofia Viksson, Björn Karlsson, Ola Björsell, Elisabeth Zetterlund, Ronny Trygg, Karl-Erik Augustsson, Lars Johansson

Financial Department Maria Hoffmann

Marketing and Communications Therese Patriksson, Jenny Magnusson, Lennart Johansson, Yvonne Johansson, Tom Svensson, Lotta Olofsson, Nina Lindberg Hamn, Jenny Schmidt

Pre-school Linda Åsberg, Eva Erlandsson, Karolina Gullberg, Birgitta Liljegren, Birgitta Hedenberg (temporary)

Ecopark Alexander Zachrisson

Nordens Ark’s partners

Nordens Ark’s scientific partners

Nordens Ark’s memberships

Sponsors Gifts, bequests and donationsAnn-Katrin Lundberg

Arctic Paper

Dag Engströms Rederi AB

Elanders Sverige AB

Erna and Victor Hasselblad Foundation

Esab AB

Göteborgs Kex

Hogia AB

Holmens Herr AB

Konsumentföreningen Bohuslän Älvsborg

Liseberg

Lundhaga Snickeri

M. Werner

Mikaels Grävtjänst AB

NBS Security AB

Nordstan Marknadsledning

Novab AB

OffiTech AB

Ligula Hospitality Group AB

Rambo AB

Skogssällskapet

Sodexo AB

Sturm & Drang Reklambyrå AB

Unifaun AB

Varsego Sverige AB

Vasco AB

Vattenfall AB

Volvo Personvagnar AB

Aino Inkeri Mattsson (née Karvonen)

Ann-Katrin Lundberg

Britta & Olle Almén

Bygg-G Förvaltnings AB

Eliasson family foundation for the promotion of

architectural heritage

Erik and Lily Philipson Memorial Fund

Erna and Victor Hasselblad Foundation

Friends of Nordens Ark

Gillis Larsson

Götiska Förbundet

Let’s Deal AB

Lilla Samskolan, Gothenburg

Lions Uddevalla

Margit Sjöberg

Marie-Claire Cronstedt Foundation

Michael Persson

Nordens Ark Fundraising Foundation

Rosa Olsson

Rune Lindstedt

Studiefrämjandet

Swedish Association for Hunting and

Wildlife Management

Swedish Society for Nature Conservation

Thordén Foundation

Thuréus Forskarhem

Västanå Theatre

Västra Götaland county administrative board

Svensk InsamlingskontrollInternational Union for Conservation of Nature

European Association of Zoos and Aquaria

FrivilligorganisationersInsamlingsråd

European Endangered Species Programme

SvenskDjurparksförening

International Species Inventory System

Snow Leopard Trust

Conservation Breeding Specialist Group

World Association of Zoos and Aquariums

Our thanks to our sponsors Elanders Sweden AB and Arctic Paper who paid for the printing and paper for this annual report. Paper: cover Arctic Silk 250 g/m2; insert Arctic Volume White 130 g/m2.Design and layout: Lena Eliasson, Grafiska Språnget AB.English translation: Christopher Godfrey.Cover photo: Amur tiger with cub – Christopher Godfrey, www.animalimagery.co.uk

In collaboration with Chalmers University of Technology, Elanders has developed a climate calculator that takes into account the entire life cycle of printed matter when calculating greenhouse gas emissions (carbon footprint). Using these climate calculations, Elanders can now offer to climate-neutralise your printed matter by investing in certified emission reductions in UN-approved CDM (Clean Development Mechanism) projects.

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Nordens Ark, Åby säteriSE-456 93 Hunnebostrand

SwedenTelephone +46 (0)523-795 90

Fax +46 (0)523-520 87

E-mail nordensark@nordensark.sewww.nordensark.se

Plusgiro 90 01 96-7Bankgiro 900-1967