WILDLIFE PLAN, 2: Learn how zoos help wildlife 
and habitat conservation efforts in Texas ... we'll 
explain on Passport to Texas.

Passport to Texas from Texas Parks and Wildlife

Go to any Texas zoo, and you'll see exotic animals from 
around the globe. What you won't see, though, is the 
research taking place behind the scenes that supports 
wildlife and habitat conservation right here in Texas. 

"They're working with imperiled species, they're doing breeding 
programs, they're doing scientific research on, for instance, the 
movement of ocelots. They are doing a lot more than the public 
knows about."
Steve Bender coordinates the Comprehensive Wildlife 
Conservation Strategy for Texas Parks and Wildlife - a new plan 
tied to millions of dollars in federal funding to conserve wildlife 
and habitat in Texas. The plan entails the conservation and 
monitoring of Texas native animal species to ensure they don't 
end up on the federal endangered species list. He says zoos 
play an important role in this effort.

"They're turning out to be some of our best conservation partners, 
because they want to do this and they're dedicating funds to do it with. 
So, it is a misnomer that they are only doing exotic species and not 
working with Texas species. In fact, almost all of the zoos we've been 
to now have multiple conservation projects that are Texas based."
A zoo tour this summer allowed the general public and conservation 
partners an opportunity to learn about -- and comment on -- the conservation 
strategy before it is finalized and sent to the US Fish and Wildlife 
Department. Bender says public comment will be accepted through 
September fifteenth. You can comment on the plan by logging onto 
the Texas Parks and Wildlife Web site. 

That's our show. Made possible by a grant from the Sport Fish and 
Wildlife restoration Program ... for Texas Parks and Wildlife ... 
I'm Cecilia Nasti.