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About AZA

It's in Our Nature

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums is committed to providing the highest quality member services to advance the zoo and aquarium movement. AZA is also committed to being a global leader in promoting species conservation and animal wellbeing by leveraging the size, scope, expertise, and public trust of its member institutions.

Learn More About AZA
misty forest

Leaders in Animal Care, Conservation, and Education

AZA represents more than 250 facilities in the United States and overseas, which collectively draw more than 200 million visitors every year. AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums meet the highest standards in animal care and wellbeing and provide a fun, safe, and educational family experience. In addition, they dedicate millions of dollars annually to support scientific research, conservation, and education programs.

Accredited Zoos and Aquariums

Countries

$ m

Invested in Field Conservation Projects by AZA Members in 2024

Programs and Initiatives

black and red bird in tall grass school of fish tiger looking through leaves rhinos in a grassy field
Saving Animals from Extinction

AZA SAFE: Saving Animals From Extinction® focuses the collective expertise within AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums and leverages their massive audiences to save species.

SAFE
Accreditation

AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums meet the highest standards in animal care and wellbeing, and provide a fun, safe, and educational family experience. They undergo a thorough review that includes a multiple-day, on-site inspection by a team of experts from around the country.

Wildlife Trafficking

The Wildlife Trafficking Alliance (WTA) is a coalition of more than 100 AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums, companies, and non-profit organizations working together to reduce, and eventually eliminate, the illegal trade of wildlife and wildlife products.

Animal Programs

AZA’s Animal Population Management Committee manages nearly 500 animal programs, including Taxon Advisory Groups, Species Survival Plan® Programs, and Studbook Programs. These animal programs are responsible for AZA’s cooperative animal management, conservation, and scientific initiatives.

Photo credit: Graham S. Jones - Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

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