Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

National Taipei University Hospital (NTUH) Deputy Superintendent Wang Ming-chu and Taipei Zoo Director Jason Yeh presided over an equipment donation ceremony on January 24. The university presented a computerized tomography (CT) scanner to the zoo.
Director Yeh remarked that the sophisticated facility will strengthen the institution’s ability to collect biological data and conduct research. The CT scanner – utilized in medical examining for human patients – will also enhance information processing and diagnosis in medical care for animals suffering from injuries or diseases.
Following the ceremony, the representatives of the zoo and Eva Airway signed an agreement on future cooperation. The airline company was in charge of transportation arrangements for the panda pair in 2009.
Manager Ke Wen-lin indicated that Eva Airway will continue to work with Taipei Zoo in the area of animal protection, utilizing its global presence, international flight routes, and other professional know-how to promote the cause.
Citing the panda exhibition hall as am example, zoo officials pointed out how IT appliances revolutionize traditional ‘day-at-the-zoo’. By issuing waiting numbers at the ticket booth, these appliances helps visitors reduce unnecessary waiting time in long queues. Furthermore, visitors can watch the pandas online without having to visit the zoo, thanks to dynamic imaging technology.
Despite the global economic turmoil last year, the zoo saw a steady growth in the number of visitors and admissions. This unexpected gain, along with the involvement of more and more private companies in animal conservation, helps Taipei Zoo pick up momentum for animal protection, allowing the agency to carry out actions even in remote parts of the island.