Nestled in Ohio, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds stand as a shining example of excellence in animal care, conservation, and education. Both accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Zoo and The Wilds have long been a part in furthering AZA's mission to advance the welfare of animals, promote conservation efforts, and provide an engaging educational experience to visitors. And, this week, both organizations are honored to welcome AZA to the Buckeye state as we host the 2023 AZA Annual Conference, with other zoo and aquarium professionals attending from around the globe.
So, who is the Association of Zoos and Aquariums?
Leaders in Animal Care and Welfare
AZA, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, represents more than 235 facilities worldwide, collectively drawing over 200 million visitors annually. These AZA-accredited institutions meet or exceed the high standards in animal care and welfare set by AZA, ensuring that when you visit, you can trust that the top quality of care is being provided to the animals. In fact, less than 10 percent of the 2,800 wildlife exhibitors licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture under the Animal Welfare Act meet AZA's comprehensive standards for accreditation.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds, like all AZA-accredited institutions, are comprised of teams of highly trained professionals who provide exceptional care for more than 800,000 animals. Thanks to this expertise, they are leaders in animal husbandry, health, and welfare, and inspiring the next generation of conservationists.
For AZA, the health, husbandry, and welfare of animals are paramount. The institutions follow Animal Care Manuals, which serve as valuable resources for conducting excellent animal husbandry procedures and ensuring the wellbeing of their residents. Through Taxon Advisory Groups, SSPs, and AZA Regional Studbooks, zoological facilities like the Columbus Zoo carefully manage and breed species, ensuring the continuation of diverse, self-sustaining populations.
Leaders in Conservation
Conservation is a cornerstone of the AZA's mission, and AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums are at the forefront of efforts to protect endangered species and their habitats. These institutions collectively invest $230 million annually in field conservation, supporting projects that benefit more than 800 species in 130 countries. The AZA Conservation Grants Fund alone has provided $7.7 million to support over 400 projects worldwide.
The Columbus Zoo and The Wilds actively participate in AZA's conservation initiatives, with a special focus on saving species from extinction through the AZA SAFE program. Additionally, both organizations are part of the AZA Species Survival Plan® (SSP) program, contributing to the management and breeding of over 500 species to ensure their genetic diversity and long-term survival.
Inclusivity and Diversity
In 2020, AZA took significant steps to strengthen its commitment to Diversity, Equity, Access, and Inclusion (DEAI) goals and initiatives.
The Columbus Zoo and The Wilds, as proud members of AZA, are committed to upholding these standards. Working with an interdisciplinary staff team, AZA developed an Action Plan to guide its own processes, programs, and member services in promoting DEAI. Both The Wilds and the Zoo uphold this commitment, further emphasizing their dedication to diversity, equity, access, and inclusion in every facet of their operations.
As proud members of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, The Wilds and the Columbus Zoo strive to stand shoulder to shoulder with other AZA-accredited institutions in advancing the cause of wildlife protection and education.
When you visit the Columbus Zoo, you not only experience a fun and educational family outing but also become a part of their mission to save species and promote a more inclusive world.
