About the Association
The Association of Zoos & Aquariums is a non profit organization dedicated to making sure zoos, aquariums, and facilities alike have proper living conditions for their animals to insure their wellbeing. In doing so, they are helping advance these facilities in the areas of education, conservation, and science.
The zoos and aquariums that are accredited by the AZA hold the highest standards for animal welfare, and they make a safe and educational family experience. A lot of the income from these places not only go to the animals they house but also to conservation and research programs.
Fewer than 10% of the 2,800 nationally licensed facilities are accredited! The zoos not accredited are usually the ones that give all zoos a bad reputation. While this subject is relative on the situation, many believe that animals shouldn't be in zoos. And in a perfect world they wouldn't be. But the AZA zoos and aquariums that care for their animals and the conservation of species deserve the worlds support. These facilities offer a safe space for species to repopulate and live, without the worry of poachers or trophy hunters sneaking onto a reservoir. Which unfortunately happens.
What is SAFE?
SAFE stands for "Saving Animals From Extinction". AZA accredited zoos work together to do exactly just that, save animals from extinction. The protect threatened animals and collaborate together towards genetically diverse breeding programs to help save the species and raise population numbers.
Take a look at 2023s Report: 2023 SAFE Annual Report
Recently in Colorado
Just recently, the Denver Zoo announced that they are going to expand to a second location in Weld County that is 600 acres! They have been apart of the Species Survival Plan (SSP) for several years, but have historically had a lack of space until now. With this new space, they will be able to expand their breeding program, and grow the species' families, as well as work up to focusing on reintroducing endangered species native to Colorado, as well as reintroducing species back into the wild outside of Colorado!
Read more here: Hopes New Home
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