132 ANNUAL REPORT SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION, 1956 



1956, the 50th anniversary of its arrival in the National Zoological 

 Park as a full-grown bird. This is a noteworthy longevity record, 

 and apparently the bird is in such condition that it should live consid- 

 erably longer. 



RESEARCH 



The National Zoological Park has no general research program, as 

 such. However, the successful keeping of any animal involves more or 

 less specific research. If the habits and requirements of a species in 

 captivity are not well known, they must be ascertained through 

 research, which may have to be carried out with all possible speed if a 

 newly received animal is to survive. The problems involved may con- 

 cern any or all of the following : Temperament of the animal ; its need 

 for exercise and for companionship ; diseases and external and internal 

 parasites to which it is subject; food preferences; housing, tempera- 

 ture, ventilation, and bedding. 



If it is known in advance that a new animal is to be received, infor- 

 mation is sought from every possible source regarding its probable 

 requirements. Upon its arrival its age and physical condition are 

 noted, and any tentative plans for its care are modified or elaborated 

 as circumstances dictate. External injuries, if any, are treated, and 

 efforts are made to rid the animal of external parasites. Internal 

 parasites are watched for, and treatment to eliminate them is under- 

 taken. Observations on the animal are continued and changes are 

 made in its environment if necessary. If it refuses to eat, new foods are 

 offered and its preferences are noted. 



The relatively low mortality rate among newly received animals and 

 the general good health of those in the collection attest the success of 

 the research that is carried on. 



In addition to the problems concerned directly with the animals, 

 there are many others that involve research. One relates to the types of 

 construction materials most suitable for the housing and exhibition of 

 the animals and most economical to maintain. This calls for constant 

 study of various types of flooring, bars, wire fabrics, cage partitions, 

 doors, locks, and numerous other materials. Much research has also 

 been done on paints, and over a period of more than 25 years the Zoo has 

 tried many different kinds and has generally been among the first to 

 make use of new paints when they are suitable. 



Another problem concerns the acquisition of ornamental plants and 

 shrubs for the Park. Some that might be entirely suitable from an 

 esthetic standpoint cannot be utilized for reasons peculiar to the Zoo. 



Incidental research carried on by Ernest P. Walker, Assistant 

 Director, mainly in his home and on his own time, has concerned the 

 care of small animals about which little is known and which in many 

 cases had not been kept successfully in captivity. Outstanding among 



