AZA News Releases

Partners Across the U.S. Celebrate Annual Endangered Species Day

Jen Fields — Wed, 15 May 2013 20:10:17 GMT

The 8th annual national Endangered Species Day will be celebrated on May 17, 2013, with special events and other programs throughout the country to recognize conservation efforts underway across the nation aimed at helping America’s imperiled species.

Animals Inc. Launch Brings the Allure of Animals to All

Jen Fields — Fri, 10 May 2013 14:56:13 GMT

Through Animals Inc., marketers have the opportunity to reach the attractive demographic of families, moms, and kids who visit AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums.

More Than 30 Zoos and Aquariums Across North America Support Autism Awareness By Taking Part in Zoos Go Blue Day on April 28

Jen Fields — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 17:33:46 GMT

Unique Autism Awareness Month Events Give Families Affected by Autism a Day of Fun and Adventure!

Largest Earth Day Party Connects People to Wildlife Conservation

Jen Fields — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 21:52:18 GMT

More than 120 of the top zoos and aquariums across North America are throwing the 7th Annual Party for the Planet™ – the largest combined Earth Day celebration in North America!

AZA-Accredited Zoos and Aquariums Generate $160 Million Annually for Wildlife Conservation

Jen Fields — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 16:05:23 GMT

AZA-Accredited Zoos and Aquariums “Spring Forward” for Amphibians

Jen Fields — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 18:32:28 GMT

Take advantage of Daylight Savings Time, and “Spring Forward” for amphibians atan Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)-accredited zoo or aquarium near you.

Zoos and Aquariums Fund Critical Wildlife Conservation and Research Projects

Jen Fields — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 22:26:42 GMT

Statement by AZA President and CEO Jim Maddy Regarding Georgia Aquarium's Beluga Whale Plans

Tim Lewthwaite — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 13:22:24 GMT

Take Action for Elephant Conservation

Gavin Brown — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 02:11:00 GMT

Semipostal Stamp Helps Save Vanishing Species

Gavin Brown — Wed, 30 May 2012 15:39:28 GMT

The Multinational Species Conservation Funds Semipostal Stamp Reauthorization Act S.3208 was introduced today in the U.S. Senate. S.3208 would reauthorize legislation requiring the U.S. Postal Service to continue to issue the Save Vanishing Species stamp, a semipostal stamp benefiting the Multinational Species Conservation Funds (MSCF) for another six years.

Animals Arrive on Capitol Hill

Elise Waugh — Wed, 09 May 2012 13:29:35 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today hosts its Annual Capitol Hill Advocacy Day and Reception. Leaders from the zoo and aquarium profession will educate Members of Congress about the importance of AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums to their communities.

Party for the Planet™ at North America's Top Zoos and Aquariums

Elise Waugh — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 13:31:52 GMT

More than 100 of the top zoos and aquariums across North America are throwing the 6th Annual Party for the Planet™ – the largest combined Earth Day celebration in North America.

“Spring Forward” for Amphibians

Elise Waugh — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 14:31:45 GMT

Take advantage of Daylight Savings Time and “Spring Forward” for Amphibians at an AZA-accredited zoo or aquarium near you.

Leap Year, Leap for Amphibians with FrogWatch USA

Elise Waugh — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 16:39:41 GMT

With Leap Year adding an extra day to your calendar, take a giant leap for amphibians by joining FrogWatch USA, the flagship citizen science program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. FrogWatch USA allows individuals and families to learn about the wetlands in their communities and help conserve amphibians by reporting the calls of local frogs and toads.

North American Zoos Support Worldwide Elephant Conservation

Elise Waugh — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:11:16 GMT

The International Elephant Foundation (IEF) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today announced support for 19 elephant conservation projects for 2012.

AAM, AZA Announce Agreement on Accreditation

Elise Waugh — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 19:11:51 GMT

The American Association of Museums (AAM) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) have signed an agreement to expedite AAM Accreditation for AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums.

Statement on Ohio Animal Escapes

Elise Waugh — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 16:55:52 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) issued the following statement regarding the animal escapes at a private facility in Zanesville, Ohio.

Add Green to Your Halloween

Elise Waugh — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:09:47 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and Green Halloween® have partnered to provide communities with healthy, animal-friendly and eco-friendly Halloween events at 49 participating zoo and aquarium locations.

Donate for the Tripoli Zoo

Gavin Brown — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 20:22:44 GMT

ASHEBORO, N.C.—The North Carolina Zoo, working with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the World Association of Zoos & Aquariums, and several other international animal welfare organizations, is leading an effort provide funds.

Statement - Occupational Safety of Elephant Care Professionals

Gavin Brown — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 14:46:18 GMT

New Association of Zoos and Aquarium (AZA) Policy to Maximize Occupational Safety of Elephant Care Professionals2011 08 22AZASteve Feldmansfeldman@aza.orgSilver Spring, MD (August 22, 2011) – The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) has adopted a series of measures to advance

Zoos and Aquariums Support White House Fatherhood Initiative

Linda Cendes — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 21:21:40 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today announced its support for the White House Fatherhood Initiative, with an invitation for dads and their kids to visit the aquarium or zoo near them this Father’s Day.

American Zoos and Aquariums Contribute $16.0 Billion to Economy

Gavin Brown — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 20:45:38 GMT

Zoos and aquariums around the country generate significant economic benefits locally, regionally and nationally, according to a new analysis conducted by nationally recognized economist, Dr. Stephen Fuller.

'Standing Tall for Zoos and Aquariums' Award Honors Congressman Lipinski

Linda Cendes — Tue, 31 May 2011 18:50:41 GMT

Today, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums presented its first annual “Standing Tall for Zoos and Aquariums” Award to Representative Daniel Lipinski (IL-3).

'Standing Tall for Zoos and Aquariums' Award Honors Congressman Bachus

Jessie Greger — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 20:27:56 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today announced the recipient of its first annual “Standing Tall for Zoos and Aquariums” Award: Congressman Spencer Bachus (AL-6).

New Semipostal Stamp to Help Save Vanishing Species

Linda Cendes — Tue, 31 May 2011 18:52:53 GMT

The Save Vanishing Species postage stamp was unveiled on May 11, 2011 at the Annual Association of Zoos and Aquariums Reception. This stamp is the first semipostal stamp issued by the United States Postal Service since 2003, the fourth in United States history. Scheduled for issuance in September 2011, the Save Vanishing Species stamp will provide an exciting way for the public to contribute to a variety of funds designed to support the conservation of vanishing wildlife species.

Hard Rock Partners with AZA For Limited-Edition Pin Series

Gavin Brown — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 19:25:21 GMT

Hard Rock will launch a series of city-specific, endangered species pins with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Association of Zoos and Aquariums

Gulf Oil Spill: One Year Later

Linda Cendes — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 18:39:03 GMT

One year later, America’s leading zoos and aquariums are continuing rehabilitation and research efforts to help wildlife impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

AZA Announces Online Training Programs for FrogWatch USA

Linda Cendes — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 16:20:16 GMT

With spring just weeks away, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today announced the launch of its new, online training programs for future chapter coordinators and volunteers of FrogWatch USA, the flagship citizen science program of AZA.

Zoos Unite to Save Endangered Apes

Gavin Brown — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 13:56:11 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Ape Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) today announced a critical new campaign to sustain a future for one of the planet’s most imperiled group of animals— apes.

Holiday Shopping is Wild at Zoos and Aquariums

Linda Cendes — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 18:17:07 GMT

This year, go wild and do your holiday shopping at the Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredited zoo or aquarium near you. Gift shops are always stocked with fun toys, beautiful ornaments and unique environmentally-friendly products you won’t find anywhere else.

AZA Announces Partnership with Howtosmile.org

Linda Cendes — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 15:18:29 GMT

AZA today announced a partnership with howtosmile.org, an online collection of thousands of hands-on interactive science and math activities dedicated to making learning exciting and engaging for everyone.

CEF Announces Grants to Conservation Projects Worldwide

Linda Cendes — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 17:09:35 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums Conservation Endowment Fund (CEF) has granted $160,000 to 8 wildlife conservation initiatives.

Add Green to Your Halloween!

Elise Waugh — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 15:10:25 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and Green Halloween® have partnered to provide communities with healthy, animal-friendly and EEK-O-friendly Halloween events for the whole family.

Pioneer In Aquarium Design, Chuck Davis, Honored With AZA Award

Linda Cendes — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 20:52:23 GMT

AZA has awarded its Wendy Fisher Award for Professional Excellence to Chuck Davis, FAIA, a founding partner and currently senior principal at Esherick Homsey Dodge and Davis (EHDD) Architecture, for his outstanding contributions to integrative aquarium and zoo design.

AZA Grants Award to Karen Sausman of The Living Desert

Linda Cendes — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 15:07:46 GMT

The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) has awarded its highest award for professional excellence, the R. Marlin Perkins Award, to Karen Sausman, President Emeritus of The Living Desert for her outstanding contributions to the zoo and aquarium profession.

Accredited Zoos & Aquariums Helping with the Oil Spill

Linda Cendes — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 16:43:55 GMT

This is a growing list of AZA institutions that have sent or promised staff and or resources to help with the ongoing oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Last update June 16, 2010. CALIFORNIA Aquarium of the

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Linda Cendes — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 18:41:47 GMT

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Briefing on Zoo and Aquarium Oiled Wildlife Rescue Efforts

Linda Cendes — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 20:38:37 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is holding a briefing that will feature national and Gulf region experts who will provide up-to-date information from the front lines of the wildlife rescue and rehabilitation effort.

Zoos & Aquariums Mobilize to Help Save Gulf's Wildlife

Gavin Brown — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 20:07:45 GMT

America’s leading zoos and aquariums are mobilizing to help save wildlife impacted by the Gulf of Mexico oil spill.

Zoo and Aquarium Response to Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill

Linda Cendes — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 20:08:53 GMT

AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums are mobilizing to help save wildlife impacted by the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

Party for the Planet™ At Your Zoo And Aquarium

AZA Intern — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 15:11:17 GMT

More than 100 of the top zoos and aquariums across North America are throwing a Party for the Planet™, making it the largest combined Earth Day celebration in North America!

Endangered Species Day Art Contest

Linda Cendes — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 17:35:05 GMT

This spring, young people can celebrate our nation's wildlife and wild places by entering in the Endangered Species Day Art Contest.

“Spring Forward” For Amphibians 2011

Elise Waugh — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 15:35:56 GMT

As clocks ‘spring forward’ on March 13, 2010, take the opportunity to learn more about the amphibians in your own community through FrogWatch USA, the flagship citizen science program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

North American Zoos Support Elephant Conservation

Gavin Brown — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 13:23:20 GMT

The International Elephant Foundation (IEF) and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today announced their support for 18 elephant conservation projects for 2011.

Advisory Regarding Type A Influenza H1N1 Virus

Linda Cendes — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 22:03:17 GMT

There are no reported cases of Influenza A:H1N1 (2009-H1N1) transmission from animals to humans. Animal collections at zoological institutions, therefore, do not present a concern for public health. The purpose of this advisory is to ensure adequate protections for animal collections.

AZA Announces Conservation Endowment Fund Grants

Linda Cendes — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:45:07 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums announced that the AZA Conservation Endowment Fund has awarded $170,000 to nine wildlife conservation initiatives.

Zoos & Aquariums-- Green Shopping for the Holidays

Linda Cendes — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:59:43 GMT

Avoid the Mall, Support Wildlife Conservation, and Find Unique Gifts.

PBI and AZA to Inspire Action on Climate Change

kate bronislawski — Thu, 06 May 2010 19:33:38 GMT

The Association of Zoos & Aquariums and Polar Bears International signed a Memorandum of Understanding to work together to educate zoo and aquarium visitors on the impacts of climate change on polar bears and their habitat.

NOAA Grants $9 Million to AZA Aquariums

Linda Cendes — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:34:16 GMT

NOAA Announces $9 Million in Grants to AZA-accredited Aquariums The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) today announced 11 grants totaling more than $9 million that will create new education projects in aquariums across the nation.

Lincoln Park Zoo President and CEO Kevin Bell Becomes AZA Chair of the Board

kate bronislawski — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:30:54 GMT

Kevin J. Bell, President and CEO of Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo was sworn-in today as Chair of the Board of Directors for the country's most prestigious zoological community - the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Oregon Zoo Hosts 85th Annual AZA Conference

kate bronislawski — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:40:52 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Oregon Zoo kick off the 85th annual AZA Conference next week at the Oregon Convention Center. The conference runs Sept. 14-17.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo to Host Celebrity Gecko

kate bronislawski — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:42:00 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) today welcomed the traveling GEICO Gecko exhibit to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.

Animal Planet Educates Zoo Visitors With Innovative Kiosks

kate bronislawski — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:43:56 GMT

Animal Planet has established “ZOOTUBE” kiosks at AZA-accredited zoos. Kiosks feature behind-the-scenes footage, fun conservation facts and Animal Planet exclusives.

AZA and USFWS Partner for Conservation

kate bronislawski — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:46:45 GMT

At a briefing held on Capitol Hill on June 22nd, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (Service)Wildlife Without Borders program and partner conservation organizations debuted a video showing how the Service is working with partners in the Latin American and Caribbean region to create a new generation of conservation professionals.

Philadelphia Zoo Hosts GEICO Geckos

Debi Colbert — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 17:32:33 GMT

Today, the GEICO Gecko costumed character visited the Philadelphia Zoo’s Rare Animal Conservation Center to join Philadelphia Zoo President & CEO, Vikram H. Dewan, Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) President & CEO, Jim Maddy, and representatives from GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) as they cut the ribbon to officially open the traveling GEICO Gecko Exhibit at America’s first zoo who will host the GEICO Gecko Exhibit now through August 30.

Infrastructure Projects Important to Communities

Jackie Marks — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:35:08 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today called for shovel-ready zoo and aquarium infrastructure projects to be eligible for Federal stimulus funding.

Twenty North American Zoos and Aquariums Earn AZA Accreditation

Jackie Marks — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:26:32 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) today announced the results of its March accreditation hearings. Twenty zoos and aquariums across North America were granted AZA accreditation by its independent Accreditation Commission.

GEICO to Become Proud Partner

Jackie Marks — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:02:04 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) have announced a strategic partnership to promote zoo and aquarium wildlife conservation. The announcement took place at AZA's 83rd Annual Convention in Philadelphia.

GEICO Geckos at Georgia Aquarium

Jackie Marks — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 13:38:56 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) today welcomed the traveling GEICO Gecko exhibit to the world’s largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium.

Visit an Elephant, Support Conservation

Gavin Brown — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 19:21:57 GMT

AZA-accredited zoos play an important role in furthering elephant conservation on a worldwide basis. By visiting elephants in accredited zoos, people help make possible the field conservation, research, habitat restoration, reduction of human-elephant conflicts and community-based initiatives necessary to protect wild populations.

Aquariums and Zoos Celebrate World Oceans Day

Gavin Brown — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 20:43:36 GMT

Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) accredited aquariums and zoos are leaders in ocean conservation education and science, and invite the public to dive in to ocean conservation on June 8 – World Oceans Day.

Valvoline and AZA Partner for Environmental Enhancement

Jackie Marks — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:08:34 GMT

Respecting the environment and enhancing conservation is of extreme importance, and AZA and Valvoline are partnering to do just that. Launched on May 1, and while supplies last at participating locations, when a customer purchases services performed with Valvoline Professional Series solvent-free products, they'll receive a certificate for a buy-one-get-one-free admission to a participating AZA-accredited zoo or aquarium in their community.

Why Wild Animals Don't Make Good Pets

Gavin Brown — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 13:18:11 GMT

Exotic creatures like chimpanzees, pythons, kinkajous and scarlet macaws have captured the hearts of animal-lovers looking for companions; but keeping exotic animals as pets can come with hidden costs – both for people and animals.

Statement of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums on H1N1 Influenza

Jackie Marks — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 23:49:36 GMT

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is an independent accrediting organization with mandatory standards that protect the health of the visiting public and the animals in accredited zoos and aquariums. This includes the current situation involving H1N1 influenza.