Sedgwick County Zoo has once again received accreditation from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), maintaining a standard of excellence it has upheld since first being accredited in 1981. AZA has been the primary accrediting body for zoos and aquariums for over 40 years, and its accreditation is considered the gold standard for animal care, welfare, and management.
The accreditation process is a meticulous, multi-step evaluation that includes a comprehensive application, multi-day on-site inspection, and in-person hearing before AZA’s Accreditation Commission. The inspecting team analyzes all aspects of the facility’s operation, from animal welfare and conservation to guest experience and safety.
A thorough review ensures that accredited facilities have met and will continue to meet the ever-rising standards. As a condition of Association membership, AZA facilities must complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years.
Sedgwick County Zoo’s reaccreditation affirms its commitment to meeting and exceeding these high standards and underscores its contributions to global conservation initiatives. Home to some of the most vulnerable species from around the world, Sedgwick County Zoo and its guests play a vital role in securing a future for wildlife.