Yes, Brookfield Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). The zoo has been evaluated independently by the accrediting organization and has met or exceeded the standards of best practice set by experts in the profession. This accreditation ensures that Brookfield Zoo maintains high standards for animal care, veterinary care, conservation, education, guest services, physical facilities, safety, staffing, finance, and governing body.
What is AZA Accreditation?
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a non-profit organization that sets the highest standards for animal care and welfare, conservation, education, and guest experience in zoos and aquariums. AZA accreditation is a rigorous process that evaluates a zoo or aquarium’s compliance with these standards.
To become AZA accredited, a zoo or aquarium must undergo a thorough inspection and review process that includes:
-
Comprehensive Inspection: AZA inspectors conduct a comprehensive on-site inspection of the facility, examining all aspects of the zoo or aquarium’s operations, including animal care, veterinary programs, conservation efforts, education programs, and guest services.
-
Detailed Application: The zoo or aquarium must submit a detailed application that provides extensive information about its operations, policies, and procedures.
-
Peer Review: The application and inspection findings are reviewed by a team of experts in the field, who assess the facility’s compliance with AZA standards.
-
Accreditation Commission Review: The final decision on accreditation is made by the AZA Accreditation Commission, which is composed of experienced zoo and aquarium professionals.
AZA accreditation is valid for five years, after which the facility must undergo the review process again to maintain its accredited status.
Why is AZA Accreditation Important for Brookfield Zoo?
AZA accreditation is a significant achievement for Brookfield Zoo, as it demonstrates the zoo’s commitment to providing the highest standards of animal care, conservation, and guest experience. Here are some of the key benefits of AZA accreditation for Brookfield Zoo:
-
Animal Welfare: AZA accreditation ensures that Brookfield Zoo meets or exceeds the rigorous standards for animal care and welfare, including proper housing, nutrition, veterinary care, and enrichment.
-
Conservation Efforts: As an AZA-accredited institution, Brookfield Zoo is actively involved in conservation efforts, both on-site and through partnerships with other organizations.
-
Educational Programs: Brookfield Zoo’s educational programs are designed to inspire visitors to appreciate and protect the natural world, and AZA accreditation ensures that these programs meet the highest standards.
-
Guest Experience: AZA accreditation helps Brookfield Zoo maintain a high level of guest services, ensuring that visitors have a safe, enjoyable, and educational experience.
-
Reputation and Credibility: AZA accreditation is a prestigious designation that enhances Brookfield Zoo’s reputation and credibility within the zoo and aquarium community, as well as with the general public.
Brookfield Zoo’s Commitment to Animal Welfare
As an AZA-accredited institution, Brookfield Zoo is committed to providing the highest standards of animal care and welfare. This commitment is evident in the zoo’s various programs and initiatives, including:
-
Veterinary Care: Brookfield Zoo has a team of experienced veterinarians who provide comprehensive medical care for the animals, including routine check-ups, preventive care, and specialized treatments.
-
Nutrition and Enrichment: The zoo’s animal care staff work closely with nutritionists to ensure that the animals receive a balanced and nutritious diet. Additionally, the zoo provides a variety of enrichment activities to stimulate the animals’ natural behaviors and promote their overall well-being.
-
Habitat Design: Brookfield Zoo’s habitats are designed to mimic the animals’ natural environments, providing them with the space, resources, and opportunities to engage in their natural behaviors.
-
Conservation Breeding Programs: Brookfield Zoo participates in various conservation breeding programs, which help to maintain healthy and genetically diverse populations of endangered species.
-
Research and Collaboration: Brookfield Zoo collaborates with researchers and other institutions to advance the understanding of animal behavior, health, and conservation.
Brookfield Zoo’s Commitment to Conservation and Education
In addition to its commitment to animal welfare, Brookfield Zoo is also dedicated to conservation and education. The zoo’s conservation efforts include:
-
On-Site Conservation: Brookfield Zoo is home to several endangered species, and the zoo’s staff work to protect and conserve these species through various programs and initiatives.
-
Partnerships and Collaborations: Brookfield Zoo partners with other organizations, both locally and globally, to support conservation efforts and share knowledge and resources.
-
Educational Programs: Brookfield Zoo offers a wide range of educational programs, including guided tours, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities, to inspire visitors to appreciate and protect the natural world.
-
Sustainability Initiatives: Brookfield Zoo is committed to reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainability, through initiatives such as energy-efficient buildings, recycling programs, and sustainable landscaping.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Brookfield Zoo’s AZA accreditation is a testament to the zoo’s commitment to providing the highest standards of animal care, conservation, and education. As an AZA-accredited institution, Brookfield Zoo is recognized as a leader in the zoo and aquarium community, and its dedication to excellence is evident in every aspect of its operations.
Whether you’re a seasoned zoo enthusiast or a first-time visitor, a trip to Brookfield Zoo is sure to be an unforgettable experience. With its world-class animal exhibits, engaging educational programs, and commitment to sustainability, Brookfield Zoo is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the natural world.