Conservation, It’s Our Mission

We value animals, big and small, from all over the world. We envision a world where all people respect, value, and conserve animals and their habitats globally. Our mission is focused on conserving animals, whether through our breeding programs or through scientific study of the preservation of natural resources. For our visitors, we hope to foster an appreciation of the world's wildlife and conservation of these irreplaceable wonders of the world.

As an active member of WAZA, the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Denver Zoo is working with other zoos and aquariums to respond to the global extinction crisis facing the world's frogs and other amphibians.  Learn More

The Zoo serves as a primary regional resource for wildlife conservation through programs that encourage the protection of animals and their ecosystems, promote the advancement of conservation science and provide enjoyable conservation education for our visitors. Denver Zoo is recognized globally for its conservation efforts both in situ (in the wild) and ex situ (at home), proving funding and staff support to hundreds of projects over the years.

Central to Denver Zoo's conservation efforts is the Department of Conservation Biology. Through continued research and funding, the Department is helping to conserve a variety of species worldwide. Denver Zoo is celebrating the tenth anniversary of the establishment of the Department of Conservation Biology. Although the Zoo has been active in conservation and research since its founding in 1896, the establishment of the Department of Conservation Biology provided dedicated staff and funding to support hundreds of projects throughout the world.

We want you to join our conservation movement. Donate now, or learn more about our projects in the field, projects at the zoo, and what you can do to help. Together, we can make a difference.