ZIMS in Research: Discovering New Strategies for Regent Honeyeater Conservation

As Dr. Tripovich explained, the Species360 Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS) has become central to conservation breeding and release planning for the Regent Honeyeater. By capturing detailed records of zoo-housed birds—including life history, health, and breeding metrics—ZIMS enables researchers to better understand the traits that influence post-release survival.

This integration of zoo-based data with field monitoring allows for evidence-based adjustments to breeding practices. For example, analysis has shown that factors such as the age and reproductive experience of parent birds affect the post-release fitness of offspring. The team has also identified the optimal age for release, improving survival outcomes for translocated individuals.

Nest Predation: A Persistent Barrier to Recovery

Despite these advances, challenges remain. One of the most significant is low nest success in the wild, which continues to hinder the species’ recovery. Predation by native birds and mammals—including Laughing Kookaburras, Magpies, Sugar Gliders, and Brushtail Possums—has been identified as a primary cause of nest failure.

In response, current research is focused on non-lethal methods to reduce nest predation, particularly from arboreal mammals. Modeling conducted in 2022 highlighted the urgency of improving nest protection to avoid further declines, with practical frameworks now being developed to support field implementation.

Song Tutoring to Support Species-typical Behavior

Another key focus of the breeding program has been the preservation of species-typical vocalizations. Regent Honeyeaters bred in human care were not consistently learning the wild dialect, a problem caused by limited social exposure during early development. Because vocal learning is essential for mate recognition and territory establishment, this posed a barrier to successful integration in the wild.

To address this, a song tutoring program was introduced. Young birds are now exposed to the vocalizations of wild Regent Honeyeaters to support natural song development. In addition to playing songs through speakers, wild born tutors in neighbouring aviaries so that the birds can hear and see the behaviours that are associated with the calls. At the end of the breeding season, the wild birds are also placed in the same aviaries as the young birds, so they can have direct interactions. As Dr. Tripovich noted, this initiative is already yielding positive results, with zoo-bred birds incorporating components of the wild song dialect into their calls.

Pairing Data with Field Research

The Regent Honeyeater recovery effort demonstrates how integrated data systems like ZIMS, when paired with field-based insights, can guide more effective conservation outcomes. From refining release protocols to improving behavioral preparedness and managing threats in the wild, these approaches are helping inform a more adaptive, science-based strategy for species recovery.

Dr. Joy Tripovich’s presentation provided a clear picture of how evidence-based tools are shaping practical solutions for a critically endangered species—work that continues to evolve as new data and techniques emerge. Thank you to all the team for your work on behalf of this beautiful species.

Watch the recording of last year’s Symposium to hear more about Dr. Tripovich’s research.