Walking through the spacious habitats and seeing the diverse array of animals, it’s clear that Sedgwick County Zoo is more than just a place to witness wildlife; it is a testament to animal care, education, and conservation dedication hence the pillars of our mission, “Caring, Connecting, and Conserving”. This dedication is encapsulated in the zoo’s achievement of being AZA accredited. But what exactly does this accreditation entail, and why does it matter to you?
AZA Accreditation: The Gold Standard in Animal Care
The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) represents the benchmark for zoos and aquariums across the globe.
“Excellence in animal welfare is the underlying foundation on which all AZA standards and practices are premised and developed.” -Association of Zoos and Aquariums
To be AZA accredited, institutions must undergo a thorough review process, adhering to the highest care and welfare standards for animals, as well as ensuring a quality experience for all visitors.
The Rigorous Process
Achieving AZA accreditation is no small task. Zoos and aquariums must pass a meticulous evaluation that covers every aspect of operation, from animal nutrition and veterinary care to education programs and safety policies. This process includes:
- A detailed application submission
- An on-site inspection conducted by a team of experts
- A hearing before the AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission
Only those institutions exhibiting the highest levels of care and dedication are awarded accreditation, which is re-evaluated every five years.
Sedgwick County Zoo’s Commitment
Caring, Connecting, Conserving
At Sedgwick County Zoo, being AZA accredited symbolizes a commitment to a shared mission of wildlife conservation and public education. It means:
- Caring: Upholding Elite Standards in Animal Welfare & Ensuring Exceptional Visitor Experiences
- The Zoo exceeds expectations in ensuring its animals live in habitats as close to their natural environments as possible. Guests not only enjoy the sights, but learn through interactive and engaging exhibits and activities catered to all ages.
- Connecting: Creating and Supporting Local and Educational Initiatives
- From early childhood development to citizen science programs, the efforts to inform and inspire action in preserving our world’s biodiversity are paramount.
- Conserving: Promoting Conservation and Research
- The Zoo dedicates resources towards the betterment of animal life both in human care and in the wild by supporting conservation efforts globally both fiscally and in the field. Over the past decade, SCZ has donated more than one million dollars to conservation through the Quarters for Conservation initiative and by simply asking visitors to round up their purchases.
Beyond the Barriers
In this instance, we aren’t just referring to our video series, Beyond the Barrier. An AZA accreditation also speaks to the active role Sedgwick County Zoo takes in global conservation and research – beyond the exhibits you see when visiting. Funds are allocated to various projects that make tangible impacts on animal populations worldwide. Every ticket, membership, and donation supports these initiatives, directly contributing to the Zoo’s mission.
What This Means for You
When you visit Sedgwick County Zoo, you are doing more than just observing beautiful, endangered animals; you’re supporting an institution that has committed to the highest standards of animal care and conservation. You become part of a larger movement to save species and educate the next generation about the importance of wildlife conservation.
Engage, Educate, Empower
Visiting an AZA-accredited zoo like Sedgwick County Zoo gives you the power to impact conservation efforts positively. Through unforgettable experiences and educational programs, you can learn about the challenges facing wildlife and what you can do to help.
AZA accreditation is not just a badge of honor; it’s a beacon of hope for the future of zoological institutions, the animals they care for, and the natural world we all share. Sedgwick County Zoo stands proudly as a part of this community, inviting you to experience firsthand how much accreditation matters.
Join us at Sedgwick County Zoo, where every visit is a step toward a brighter future for wildlife and the planet we call home.
