Zoos have existed for centuries, showcasing animals like lions, tigers, and smaller wild cats, but not everyone agrees that animals should be kept in captivity.
Many people believe that zoos limit animals’ freedom and cannot fully replicate natural habitats, potentially impacting their well-being. Others bsay accredited zoos provide safety, medical care, and protection from threats like poaching or habitat loss, while also educating the public about endangered species.
You will find some zoos more involved than others in wild cat conservation. Through programs like the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plans (SSPs) and the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria’s Endangered Species Programmes (EEPs), these zoos manage breeding to preserve genetic diversity for species like Amur tigers and Asiatic lions, which face extinction risks.
They also research cat behavior, reproduction, and health to help wild populations, and fund projects such as anti-poaching patrols in Africa for cheetahs or habitat restoration in Asia for Sumatran tigers. Additionally, there are zoos that will educate visitors about threats like deforestation and human-wildlife conflict, aiming to inspire action for conservation.
Types of Zoo Accreditations
- AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums – A U.S.-based organization that sets high standards for zoos and aquariums in animal care, conservation, and education. AZA accreditation ensures facilities maintain ethical practices, support species survival programs (like SSPs), and contribute to research and conservation.
- WAZA (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums) – A global organization uniting zoos and aquariums to promote animal welfare, conservation, and environmental education. WAZA accreditation signifies a zoo’s commitment to global conservation efforts and ethical standards for animal care.
- EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria) – A European organization that oversees zoos and aquariums, ensuring high standards in animal welfare, conservation, and education. EAZA accreditation includes participation in programs like the EEP to protect endangered species.
- EEP (European Endangered Species Programme) – A program managed by EAZA to coordinate breeding and conservation efforts for endangered species across European zoos. It focuses on maintaining healthy, genetically diverse populations for species like wild cats.
- ZAA (Zoo and Aquarium Association, Australasia) – An Australasian organization that accredits zoos and aquariums in Australia, New Zealand, and nearby regions. ZAA ensures members meet standards for animal care, conservation, and education, often supporting regional species like Sumatran tigers.
- PAAZA (Pan-African Association of Zoos and Aquaria) – An African organization that accredits zoos and aquariums, promoting animal welfare and conservation of native species like lions and cheetahs. PAAZA supports regional conservation efforts and ethical standards.
- JAZA (Japan Association of Zoos and Aquariums) -,A Japanese organization that accredits zoos and aquariums in Japan, ensuring quality animal care and conservation programs. JAZA members often focus on species like Sumatran tigers and support regional conservation.
- SZB (Brazilian Society of Zoos and Aquariums) -,A Brazilian organization that accredits zoos, focusing on animal welfare and conservation of South American species like jaguars. SZB supports local biodiversity and ethical zoo practices.
List of Zoos
Here is a list of zoos involved in wild cat conservation, including education, research and habitat preservation.
