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about environmental conservation. 86% felt that if the public 

 learns more about marine mammals, they are more likely to become 

 concerned about marine mammal conservation. 



Much of what is known about marine mammal biology, 

 physiology, reproduction and behavior results from scientific 

 research conducted by Alliance and AAZPA members. In the last 

 five years alone. Alliance members have spent over $20 million on 

 research improving marine mammal health, diet, animal husbandry, 

 reproductive biology and treatment for injury and disease. In 

 the past twenty-five years. Alliance members have published over 

 1,600 research studies, presenting the results to professional 

 organizations and conferences. 



Comparative biology studies, which include basic and field 

 research, undertaken by Alliance and AAZPA members are important 

 for the conservation of marine mammal species throughout the 

 world. Research by Alliance and AAZPA members significantly 

 benefits wild populations of marine mammals. For example, 

 research done at these facilities has led to the elimination of 

 toxic fuel oils being used in offshore oil drilling, testing 

 satellite linked radio transmitters to allow scientists to learn 

 more about marine mammal migration patterns, identifying marine 

 mammal diseases, developing treatment methods to assist stranded 

 marine mammals, studying the effects of aircraft noise on birds 

 and marine mammals, researching how harbor seals avoid heart 

 disease (the number one killer of adults) even though their all 

 seafood diet is high in protein and fatty acids, and video taping 

 marine mammal behavior in the wild to acquire information to 

 protect these animals in their natural environment. 



An October 1992 Roper Poll showed that 86% of the American 

 public considered it essential or important for zoos, aquariums, 

 oceanariums and marine life parks to do research. 



Because of their extensive expertise with marine mammals. 

 Alliance and AAZPA members are called upon by the public, local 

 animal organizations, and state and federal regulators to respond 

 to animals in distress through strandings and injury. Almost 

 1,500 sick and injured wild animals have been rescued, 

 rehabilitated and returned to the wild by the marine mammal 

 community in the past five years. Years of research and study 

 are responsible for this success. Since 1987, Alliance members 

 alone have spent over $5 million rescuing, treating, feeding and 

 releasing marine mammals. According to an October 1992 Roper 



