The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is a renowned international, nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to saving endangered species worldwide. With its three world-class facilities – the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research – the organization is at the forefront of conservation efforts, combining scientific research, education, and field projects to protect wildlife and their habitats.
The San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research
The San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research is the world’s largest zoo-based, multi-disciplinary research team, with over 150 scientists, researchers, technicians, post-doctoral fellows, and support staff. The Institute focuses on eight research groups: Biodiversity Banking, Community Engagement, Conservation Genetics, Disease Investigations, Plant Conservation, Population Sustainability, Recovery Ecology, and Reproductive Sciences.
The Arnold and Mabel Beckman Center for Conservation Research
The Arnold and Mabel Beckman Center for Conservation Research is a state-of-the-art, two-story, 50,000-square foot facility that houses offices, a library, a conference room, and 20,000-square feet of laboratory space, including the Frozen Zoo®. The Center was constructed using green practices and sustainable materials, and it was designed with numerous windows, waterless fixtures, and water-efficient sinks to conserve energy and water.
Conservation Programs
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s conservation work spans more than 35 countries, addressing the biological requirements of target species, conservation and restoration of critical habitats, and training opportunities for range-country scientists and resource managers. Some of the organization’s key conservation programs include:
- Biodiversity Banking: Preserving genetic diversity through the Frozen Zoo®
- Community Engagement: Collaborating with local communities to protect wildlife and habitats
- Conservation Genetics: Utilizing genetic research to inform conservation strategies
- Disease Investigations: Studying and mitigating the impact of diseases on wildlife populations
- Plant Conservation: Protecting and restoring endangered plant species and their habitats
- Population Sustainability: Ensuring the long-term viability of wildlife populations
- Recovery Ecology: Developing and implementing strategies for species recovery
- Reproductive Sciences: Advancing reproductive technologies to support conservation efforts
Education and Outreach
Education and outreach are essential components of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s conservation efforts. The Beckman Center for Conservation Research is the only dedicated conservation education lab in the world, offering interactive web-based training courses, wildlife experiences, and learning adventures for all ages.
Conservation Corps
The Conservation Corps at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a hands-on program for high school students interested in making a difference for wildlife. The program provides opportunities to learn about conservation and environmental issues, develop a deeper understanding of animal welfare and empathy, and participate in conservation projects in San Diego County.
Cost, Timings, and Rates
| Facility | Adult | Child (3-11) | Senior (65+) | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego Zoo | $62 | $52 | $52 | 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM |
| San Diego Zoo Safari Park | $62 | $52 | $52 | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Conservation Corps | Free for accepted students | – | – | Spring 2024 session |
For more information about the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and its conservation efforts, please visit their official website at San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.
References:
1. San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research
2. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
3. Cochacashu – San Diego Zoo Global Institute for Conservation Research
4. Beckman Center for Conservation Research
5. San Diego Zoo Safari Park Conservation Corps