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What is the AZA?

Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization located in the US, and founded in 1924, which offers accreditation to zoos or aquariums that follow AZA standards, submit applications for accreditation and submit to inspections by a team of inspectors. Zoos and aquariums that wish the stamp of approval of the AZA must achieve certain standards in the following areas: animal care, education of the public, participation in wildlife conservation programs, and following the most recent scientific developments or spearheading them in order to improve animal care, education, and conservation.

The AZA has about 200 members. Just about a tenth of the US zoos and aquariums meet Association standards. Furthermore, remaining accredited is an ongoing process. Places that care for animals have to meet changes in standards and are usually given accreditation through a specific time period. Zoos and aquariums must resubmit to inspections, show improvements and keep up on the latest science in order to retain their standing.

The AZA is a zoo accreditation organization.
The AZA is a zoo accreditation organization.

There can be rapid loss of accredited status if a zoo is found to have failed to comply with AZA standards. An event in 2007 also called into question how closely the AZA was looking at the application of various animal care practices in zoos. In the end of 2007, three boys were attacked, and one killed by an escaped tiger at the San Francisco Zoo. As investigation later proved that the containment facility for the tiger did not meet the current safety standards of the AZA, though they accredited the San Francisco Zoo. The height of the wall over which the tiger may have escaped was much lower than safety standards require. Further investigation showed that the nearby Oakland Zoo also had a much lower wall for their big cats than that required by the Association, even though it is also accredited.

The AZA facilitates conservation programs for many species including tigers.
The AZA facilitates conservation programs for many species including tigers.

Failure to provide safe housing so that both animals and people are protected seems a very large hole in the AZA’s administration of its own standards. This devastating attack, even if it was in part due to provocation of the tiger by zoo guests, suggests that zoos and aquariums need to be more active in meeting safety standards, and that the Association needs to work in a more complete investigatory manner so as not to accredit an institution that violates such standards. This incident should not completely blight much of the good work the Association accomplishes, and people are likely safer, and animals better cared for at an accredited zoo.

On the AZA website, you can search zoos and aquariums by state if you choose to support this nonprofit organization. In the main, and despite the incident in San Francisco, and perhaps because of it, accreditation by the Association may truly mean you are visiting a zoo or aquarium committed to the health and well being of its animals, its guests, and to conservation efforts in the wild. This incident, if anything is likely to prompt more investigation and response by accredited zoos, and by the Association.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the AZA and what does it stand for?

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. AZA stands for the highest standards in animal care and welfare and serves as an accrediting body for institutions that meet these rigorous standards.

How does an institution become accredited by the AZA?

To become accredited by the AZA, an institution must undergo a thorough review process that includes a detailed application, an on-site inspection by AZA experts, and adherence to strict standards in animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. Only those that demonstrate excellence in all areas are granted accreditation.

Why is AZA accreditation important for zoos and aquariums?

AZA accreditation is a mark of distinction, signaling to the public that the institution meets the highest standards for animal care, conservation efforts, and educational outreach. According to the AZA, less than 10% of the approximately 2,800 animal exhibitors licensed by the USDA are accredited by the AZA, highlighting the prestige and rigor of AZA standards.

What role does the AZA play in conservation?

The AZA plays a critical role in global conservation efforts by supporting species survival programs, habitat preservation, and wildlife reintroduction initiatives. AZA-accredited institutions contribute over $220 million annually to conservation projects and participate in Species Survival Plan Programs that manage the breeding of specific species to ensure healthy, genetically diverse populations.

Can a zoo or aquarium lose its AZA accreditation, and why?

Yes, a zoo or aquarium can lose its AZA accreditation if it fails to uphold the standards set by the association. Reasons for losing accreditation can include inadequate animal care, insufficient financial resources, or failure to comply with AZA policies. Accreditation is reviewed every five years to ensure ongoing compliance with AZA standards.

How does AZA accreditation benefit the visiting public?

Visitors to AZA-accredited institutions can be assured they are supporting facilities that prioritize animal welfare, contribute to conservation, and offer educational experiences that promote understanding and respect for the natural world. These institutions are also committed to providing a safe and enjoyable visitor experience, with staff trained to the highest professional standards.

Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen

Tricia has a Literature degree from Sonoma State University and has been a frequent AllThingsNature contributor for many years. She is especially passionate about reading and writing, although her other interests include medicine, art, film, history, politics, ethics, and religion. Tricia lives in Northern California and is currently working on her first novel.

Learn more...
Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen

Tricia has a Literature degree from Sonoma State University and has been a frequent AllThingsNature contributor for many years. She is especially passionate about reading and writing, although her other interests include medicine, art, film, history, politics, ethics, and religion. Tricia lives in Northern California and is currently working on her first novel.

Learn more...

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    • The AZA is a zoo accreditation organization.
      By: ISO K° - photography
      The AZA is a zoo accreditation organization.
    • The AZA facilitates conservation programs for many species including tigers.
      By: hitdelight
      The AZA facilitates conservation programs for many species including tigers.